what is the function of the large intestine in the digestive system
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

1. What is the function of the large intestine in the digestive system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The large intestine's primary function is to absorb water from the remaining indigestible food matter that enters it from the small intestine. This absorption process helps in forming solid waste (feces) by compacting the material and preparing it for excretion. The large intestine does not secrete digestive enzymes, produce bile, or transport nutrients. Therefore, option B, 'To absorb water and form solid waste,' is the correct function of the large intestine in the digestive system.

2. Which part of the brain is responsible for regulating breathing and heart rate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the Medulla oblongata. This structure, located in the brainstem, plays a crucial role in regulating essential functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. It serves as a control center for autonomic functions necessary for maintaining life. The Cerebrum (Choice A) is mainly responsible for higher brain functions such as thinking and voluntary movements, not for regulating basic physiological processes like breathing and heart rate. The Cerebellum (Choice C) is involved in coordination, balance, and muscle control, but not in regulating breathing and heart rate. The Hypothalamus (Choice D) plays a role in regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst, but it is not primarily responsible for controlling breathing and heart rate.

3. What is the primary function of the pancreas in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To secrete digestive enzymes. The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by secreting digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. These enzymes help in the process of breaking down food particles into smaller molecules that can be easily absorbed by the body for nutrients. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary function of the pancreas is not to absorb nutrients, produce bile, or store glucose in digestion.

4. Which type of joint allows for movement in multiple directions?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is a ball and socket joint like the shoulder or hip joint, as it allows for movement in multiple directions, including rotation. This type of joint offers a high degree of mobility due to its structure, where the rounded end of one bone fits into the cup-like socket of another bone. A hinge joint (Choice A) allows movement primarily in one plane, like the elbow or knee. A pivot joint (Choice C) allows for rotation around an axis, seen in the neck joint. A saddle joint (Choice D) enables movements in multiple directions but to a lesser extent compared to a ball and socket joint, found in the thumb joint.

5. Which type of blood vessel carries blood back to the heart?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Veins are the blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart, except for the pulmonary veins which carry oxygenated blood from the lungs. Arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart. Capillaries facilitate the exchange of nutrients and gases between the blood and tissues but do not specifically carry blood back to the heart. Lymphatic vessels are part of the lymphatic system responsible for immune function and do not directly carry blood back to the heart. Therefore, the correct answer is veins.

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