HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam
1. Where does primary peristalsis occur?
- A. Esophagus
- B. Stomach
- C. Nervous system
- D. Small intestine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Primary peristalsis occurs in the esophagus. Peristalsis is the coordinated muscular contractions that propel food through the digestive tract. In the esophagus, primary peristalsis is the involuntary wave-like contractions that push food from the mouth to the stomach. It is the natural and automatic process that occurs to facilitate the movement of food during digestion. The stomach (choice B), nervous system (choice C), and small intestine (choice D) are not the primary sites where peristalsis occurs in the digestive system.
2. Which type of joint is found in the hip?
- A. Hinge joint
- B. Ball and socket joint
- C. Pivot joint
- D. Saddle joint
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ball and socket joint. The hip joint is classified as a ball and socket joint, allowing for a wide range of movement in multiple directions, including rotation. This joint structure provides stability and mobility, making it ideal for the hip's functions in bearing weight and facilitating various movements. Choice A, Hinge joint, is incorrect as hinge joints allow movement in only one plane, like the elbow or knee. Choice C, Pivot joint, is incorrect as pivot joints allow rotation around a single axis, like the joint between the first and second vertebrae. Choice D, Saddle joint, is incorrect as saddle joints are found in the thumb and allow movement in two planes, but they do not describe the hip joint.
3. What is the primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system?
- A. Regulating blood pressure
- B. Filtering blood to remove waste
- C. Producing red blood cells
- D. Regulating electrolyte balance
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system is to filter blood to remove waste products and excess fluids, which are then excreted as urine. Kidneys act as a filtration system, removing waste like urea, excess salts, and toxins. While the kidneys do play a role in regulating blood pressure by secreting renin and maintaining electrolyte balance by adjusting the levels of sodium, potassium, and other ions in the blood, their main and essential function is filtration and waste removal, making choice B the correct answer.
4. Which cellular structure is responsible for energy production?
- A. Nucleus
- B. Mitochondria
- C. Ribosome
- D. Golgi apparatus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Corrected Question: Mitochondria are organelles known as the powerhouses of the cell. They generate energy through cellular respiration, producing ATP, which is used for various cellular functions. This process is crucial for providing the energy necessary to fuel cellular activities and sustain life. The other choices, the nucleus, ribosome, and Golgi apparatus, are important cellular structures but are not directly responsible for energy production. The nucleus houses the cell's genetic material, the ribosome is involved in protein synthesis, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for processing and packaging proteins.
5. Which brain structure is involved in memory formation?
- A. Hippocampus
- B. Amygdala
- C. Cerebellum
- D. Medulla oblongata
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The hippocampus is the correct answer. It plays a crucial role in memory formation, particularly in the creation of new memories and their association with learning and emotions. Damage to the hippocampus can result in memory impairments, highlighting its significance in cognitive functions. The amygdala (Choice B) is involved in the processing of emotions, while the cerebellum (Choice C) is primarily associated with motor control and coordination. The medulla oblongata (Choice D) is responsible for vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate regulation, not memory formation.
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