the outermost layer of the skin providing protection against pathogens and the environment is the

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. Which of the following is the outermost layer of the skin, providing protection against pathogens and the environment?

A. Dermis
B. Epidermis
C. Hypodermis
D. Stratum corneum (part of the epidermis)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The epidermis is the correct answer as it is the outermost layer of the skin, providing protection against pathogens and the environment. It consists of multiple layers, including the stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis. The dermis is located beneath the epidermis, offering structural support and housing blood vessels, nerves, and glands. The hypodermis is the deepest layer of the skin, made up of fat and connective tissue that secures the skin to underlying structures. Choice A, Dermis, is incorrect as it is located beneath the epidermis. Choice C, Hypodermis, is incorrect as it is the deepest layer of the skin, not the outermost. Choice D, Stratum corneum (part of the epidermis), is not the correct answer as it is a specific layer within the epidermis and not the overall outermost layer of the skin.

2. What are Merkel cells, located in the epidermis, specialized for?

A. Melanin production
B. Temperature sensation
C. Touch perception
D. Immune defense

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Merkel cells are specialized touch receptors located in the epidermis of the skin. Their primary function is to perceive light touch and pressure. They play a crucial role in the sensory perception of touch stimuli. Option A, melanin production, is incorrect because Merkel cells are not involved in producing melanin. Option B, temperature sensation, is incorrect as Merkel cells are not specialized for sensing temperature. Option D, immune defense, is also incorrect as Merkel cells do not have a role in immune defense mechanisms.

3. What is the difference between mass and weight?

A. Mass is the amount of matter in an object, whereas weight is the force of gravity acting on an object.
B. Mass is a measure of inertia, whereas weight is a measure of the force of gravity acting on an object.
C. Mass is measured in pounds, whereas weight is measured in kilograms.
D. Mass is a vector quantity, whereas weight is a scalar quantity.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Mass is the amount of matter in an object and is a scalar quantity, whereas weight is the force of gravity acting on an object and is a vector quantity. Mass remains constant regardless of the location, while weight can vary depending on the strength of gravity at different locations. Answer choice A correctly defines the difference between mass and weight, making it the correct answer. Choice B is incorrect because mass is not a measure of inertia. Choice C is incorrect as mass is typically measured in kilograms, not pounds. Choice D is incorrect as mass is a scalar quantity, and weight is a vector quantity.

4. What is the term for the process of breaking a large molecule into smaller fragments by applying heat?

A. Polymerization
B. Hydrogenation
C. Isomerization
D. Pyrolysis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pyrolysis is the correct answer. It is the process of breaking down large molecules into smaller fragments by applying heat in the absence of oxygen. This results in the decomposition of molecules into simpler compounds. Polymerization, the process of synthesizing large molecules from smaller units, is incorrect as it is the opposite process. Hydrogenation involves adding hydrogen atoms to a compound, usually with a catalyst, which is not related to breaking down large molecules. Isomerization refers to rearranging atoms within a molecule to form isomeric compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements, which is also unrelated to the process described in the question.

5. A person who carries a pathogen but does not exhibit any symptoms is considered:

A. Asymptomatic carrier
B. Opportunistic pathogen
C. Nosocomial infection
D. Vector-borne disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An asymptomatic carrier is a person who carries a pathogen, such as a virus or bacterium, without showing any symptoms of the infection. Despite lacking symptoms, asymptomatic carriers can still transmit the pathogen to others, potentially causing illness in those they contact. This term specifically pertains to infected individuals who do not manifest symptoms, distinguishing them from symptomatic carriers who do exhibit signs of the infection. Option A is the most fitting choice as it accurately characterizes a person carrying a pathogen without displaying symptoms. B) Opportunistic pathogen: This term describes pathogens that typically do not cause disease in healthy individuals but can be pathogenic in those with weakened immune systems. C) Nosocomial infection: This term refers to infections acquired in a hospital or healthcare facility. D) Vector-borne disease: This term relates to diseases transmitted to humans by vectors like mosquitoes or ticks.