how does the circulatory system work with the digestive system

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam

1. How does the circulatory system work with the digestive system?

A. The circulatory system removes undigested solids from the body.
B. The circulatory system filters and collects digested materials.
C. The circulatory system moves absorbed nutrients through the body.
D. The circulatory system releases enzymes that control digestion.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The circulatory system works with the digestive system by transporting absorbed nutrients through the body. After digestion occurs in the digestive system, nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. The circulatory system then carries these nutrients to cells throughout the body where they are used for energy, growth, and repair. This process ensures that the necessary nutrients are delivered to where they are needed in the body. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the circulatory system is not responsible for removing undigested solids, filtering and collecting digested materials, or releasing enzymes that control digestion. These functions are primarily carried out by the digestive system.

2. What is the function of the medulla oblongata in the brain?

A. To control breathing and heart rate
B. To regulate body temperature
C. To coordinate voluntary movements
D. To process sensory information

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: To control breathing and heart rate. The medulla oblongata is a vital part of the brainstem responsible for regulating essential functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. These functions are crucial for maintaining life, and the medulla oblongata plays a key role in ensuring the body's survival. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because regulating body temperature is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus, coordinating voluntary movements is associated with the cerebellum and motor cortex, and processing sensory information is related to the thalamus and sensory cortex, not the medulla oblongata.

3. Which gland is known as the 'master gland' of the body?

A. Thyroid gland
B. Adrenal gland
C. Pituitary gland
D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The pituitary gland, often referred to as the 'master gland,' controls the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body. It secretes various hormones that regulate many bodily functions, making it a central and vital component of the endocrine system. The thyroid gland (Choice A) regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland (Choice B) produces hormones like adrenaline, and the pineal gland (Choice D) secretes melatonin, but none of these glands are considered the 'master gland' that controls the functions of other endocrine glands.

4. How do the intercostal muscles between the ribs assist with respiration?

A. By protecting the delicate bronchioles and alveoli
B. By signaling a decrease in intra-alveolar pressure
C. By enlarging and reducing the space in the thorax
D. By maintaining a medial separation between pleurae

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The intercostal muscles located between the ribs play a crucial role in respiration by aiding in the enlargement and reduction of the space in the thorax. During inspiration, these muscles contract, lifting the rib cage, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and allows the lungs to expand and fill with air. This process directly relates to the expansion of the thorax rather than protecting bronchioles and alveoli (Choice A), signaling intra-alveolar pressure changes (Choice B), or maintaining the separation between pleurae (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is C.

5. What is the main function of white blood cells?

A. To carry oxygen
B. To fight infections
C. To carry nutrients
D. To remove waste products

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of white blood cells, also known as leukocytes, is to fight infections and foreign invaders to protect the body from harm. They play a crucial role in the immune system by identifying and destroying pathogens like bacteria and viruses, essential for maintaining the body's health and overall immunity. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as carrying oxygen is primarily done by red blood cells, carrying nutrients is a function of various body systems, and removing waste products is mainly the role of the kidneys and liver, not white blood cells.