how does the skeletal system work with the nervous system

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam

1. How does the skeletal system work with the nervous system?

A. The bones transmit signals about body position to the brain.
B. Pain nerves within bones notify the brain of injuries.
C. The vertebrae of the spine protect the spinal cord.
D. Bone marrow generates and houses nerve cells.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The skeletal system collaborates with the nervous system by providing protection and support for critical nervous system components. The vertebrae of the spine play a crucial role in safeguarding the spinal cord, a key component of the nervous system responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the body. Protecting the spinal cord is essential to prevent neurological complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while bones do play a role in body position and can sense pain, the primary focus of the skeletal system's interaction with the nervous system is to protect vital components like the spinal cord, rather than generating nerve cells.

2. What part of the eye is responsible for focusing light on the retina?

A. Cornea
B. Lens
C. Retina
D. Pupil

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The lens of the eye is responsible for focusing light on the retina. When light enters the eye, it first passes through the cornea, which helps in bending the light, and then the lens further refracts and focuses the light onto the retina at the back of the eye. The retina contains photoreceptor cells that convert light into neural signals, which are then sent to the brain for visual processing. The cornea is the transparent outermost layer of the eye that helps in focusing light, but the main responsibility lies with the lens. The retina is the layer at the back of the eye that receives the focused light and initiates the process of vision. The pupil is the opening in the center of the iris that controls the amount of light entering the eye and is not directly involved in focusing light on the retina.

3. Which organelle in the cell contains the genetic material?

A. Ribosome
B. Nucleus
C. Mitochondria
D. Endoplasmic reticulum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Nucleus. The nucleus is the organelle in the cell that contains the genetic material (DNA). DNA within the nucleus determines the cell's functions and characteristics, making it essential for cell function and replication. Choice A, Ribosome, is responsible for protein synthesis, not genetic material storage. Choice C, Mitochondria, produces energy but does not contain the genetic material. Choice D, Endoplasmic reticulum, is involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism but does not house the genetic material.

4. Which of the following HDL cholesterol levels might warrant regular testing?

A. 70 or higher
B. 60
C. 50
D. 40

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An HDL cholesterol level of 70 or higher is considered high and beneficial for heart health. Individuals with high HDL levels are usually at lower risk of heart disease. Therefore, a level of 70 or above would warrant regular testing to monitor and maintain heart health. Choices B, C, and D are lower levels of HDL cholesterol, which are not typically considered high enough to warrant regular testing as they may not provide the same level of heart health benefits.

5. Which structure in the brain is involved in regulating body temperature?

A. Cerebellum
B. Hypothalamus
C. Medulla oblongata
D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, the Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature, hunger, thirst, and other autonomic functions, aiding in the maintenance of homeostasis within the body. It acts as the body's thermostat, responding to internal and external temperature changes to keep the body within a narrow temperature range. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The cerebellum is mainly involved in coordinating voluntary movements and balance. The medulla oblongata controls vital functions such as heartbeat and breathing. The pineal gland is responsible for producing melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles.