Nursing Elites

1. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine. What enzyme breaks down proteins into amino acids?

• A. Pepsin
• B. Lipase
• C. Amylase
• D. Trypsin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Trypsin is the correct enzyme that breaks down proteins into amino acids. It is produced by the pancreas and released into the small intestine to facilitate protein digestion. Pepsin is an enzyme from the stomach that also breaks down proteins, amylase targets carbohydrates, and lipase works on fats. In this context, since the question specifies the pancreas and small intestine, the correct answer is Trypsin as it is the pancreatic enzyme responsible for protein breakdown in the small intestine.

2. What is the primary function of the mucous membrane lining the muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach?

• A. Secretion of digestive enzymes
• B. Absorption of nutrients
• C. Lubrication and protection
• D. Storage of bile

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the mucous membrane lining the muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach is to provide lubrication and protection. This mucous membrane serves to protect the esophageal lining from damage caused by the passage of food and liquids. It also aids in facilitating the smooth passage of food from the mouth to the stomach by lubricating it, ensuring easier movement. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the mucous membrane does not secrete digestive enzymes, absorb nutrients, or store bile. Its main role is primarily related to lubricating and protecting the lining of the tube.

3. What is the primary function of the pyloric sphincter?

• A. to regulate the movement of food material from the stomach to the duodenum
• B. to neutralize stomach acid
• C. to prevent digested food materials and stomach acid from entering the esophagus
• D. to begin the process of chemical digestion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the pyloric sphincter is to regulate the flow of partially digested food material (chyme) from the stomach into the small intestine, specifically the duodenum. This control is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is incorrect because neutralizing stomach acid is primarily the function of the stomach lining and antacid mechanisms. Choice C is incorrect because preventing the backflow of digested food materials and stomach acid into the esophagus is mainly the role of the lower esophageal sphincter. Choice D is incorrect because the chemical digestion process primarily starts in the stomach through the action of gastric juices, not the pyloric sphincter.

4. The small intestine is where most of the chemical digestion and nutrient absorption occur. What is the finger-like projection in the small intestine that increases its surface area for absorption?

• A. Rugae
• B. Villi
• C. Microvilli
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Microvilli are the finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase its surface area for absorption. Villi are also present in the small intestine and help increase the surface area for absorption. However, microvilli are smaller structures found on the surface of villi, further increasing the surface area available for nutrient absorption. Rugae are folds in the stomach that allow for expansion when food is consumed and are not found in the small intestine. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Microvilli. Villi and microvilli are specific to the small intestine, playing vital roles in nutrient absorption, while rugae are specific to the stomach's structure and function, serving a different purpose than increasing surface area for absorption.

5. 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.

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