the basic unit of communication in the nervous system is called a

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. What is the basic unit of communication in the nervous system?

A. Neuron
B. Astrocyte
C. Neurotransmitter
D. Synapse

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A neuron is the basic unit of communication in the nervous system. Neurons are specialized cells responsible for transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals. Astrocytes are a type of glial cell that provide support and nourishment to neurons but do not participate in signal transmission. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that facilitate signal transmission between neurons, and synapses are the specific junctions where these signals are transmitted. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Neuron' as it is the primary cell involved in transmitting information in the nervous system.

2. Elements tend to gain or lose electrons to achieve stable electron configurations like those of noble gases. Their group number often indicates the number of electrons gained/lost and the resulting ionic charge, providing a good starting point for prediction.

A. Ionic bonds involve electron sharing, while metallic bonds involve electron transfer.
B. Ionic bonds are weak and directional, while metallic bonds are strong and non-directional.
C. Ionic bonds exist between metals and non-metals, while metallic bonds exist only between metals.
D. Ionic bonds form discrete molecules, while metallic bonds form extended structures.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ionic bonds typically form between metals and non-metals, where one atom donates electrons (cation) and the other accepts electrons (anion). This results in the transfer of electrons. Metallic bonds, on the other hand, occur between metal atoms where electrons are shared among a sea of delocalized electrons, leading to the characteristic properties of metals like malleability and conductivity. Choice A is incorrect because ionic bonds involve electron transfer, not sharing. Choice B is incorrect as ionic bonds are strong, not weak, and are non-directional, while metallic bonds are strong and non-directional. Choice D is incorrect as ionic bonds do not form discrete molecules but rather a lattice structure, whereas metallic bonds form extended structures.

3. What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

A. Heartbeat
B. Respiration
C. Electrolyte and water balance
D. Homeostasis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The primary function of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the stable internal conditions of the body, including body temperature, blood pH, and glucose levels. The endocrine system achieves this by releasing hormones that regulate various physiological processes and help keep the body's internal environment in balance. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while the endocrine system does influence heart rate, electrolyte and water balance, and respiration to some extent, its primary role is to regulate homeostasis by releasing hormones.

4. Which of these is NOT a function of the large intestine?

A. Absorbing water and electrolytes
B. Producing vitamins
C. Breaking down fiber
D. Eliminating waste products

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A) Absorbing water and electrolytes: The large intestine plays a crucial role in absorbing water and electrolytes from the indigestible food matter that passes through it. This helps in maintaining the body's fluid balance and preventing dehydration. B) Producing vitamins: While the large intestine contains bacteria that can produce some vitamins like vitamin K and certain B vitamins, the primary site for vitamin production is the small intestine and other organs like the liver. Therefore, producing vitamins is not a primary function of the large intestine. C) Breaking down fiber: The large intestine is responsible for breaking down fiber that was not digested in the small intestine. The bacteria in the large intestine ferment fiber, producing short-chain fatty acids that can be used as an energy source by the body. D) Eliminating waste products: One of the main functions of the large intestine is to eliminate waste products, including indigestible food matter, dead cells, and bacteria, from the body in the form of feces. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as producing vitamins is not a primary function of the large intestine.

5. What is the structure that surrounds individual muscle fibers, providing support and aiding in the transmission of force generated during muscle contraction?

A. Tendon
B. Endomysium
C. Perimysium
D. Epimysium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The endomysium is the connective tissue layer that surrounds individual muscle fibers, providing support and aiding in the transmission of force generated during muscle contraction. It is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of muscle fibers and facilitating the transmission of force within them. Tendons (option A) connect muscles to bones, perimysium (option C) surrounds bundles of muscle fibers known as fascicles, and epimysium (option D) encases the entire muscle. The endomysium specifically targets the structure that directly supports and aids in force transmission within individual muscle fibers, making it the correct answer in this context.