what is the function of the pituitary gland
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology 2023

1. What is the function of the pituitary gland?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The pituitary gland, known as the 'master gland,' plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes by secreting hormones that control other endocrine glands. This includes the regulation of metabolism, growth, reproduction, stress response, and more. Therefore, the correct function of the pituitary gland is regulating metabolism, making choice A the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as the pituitary gland is not involved in producing bile, filtering blood, or controlling muscle movement.

2. What is the function of the skin in protecting the body?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The skin serves several crucial functions in protecting the body. One of its primary roles is to act as a physical barrier against pathogens, preventing harmful microorganisms from entering the body. Choice A, 'To produce vitamin D,' is incorrect because while the skin is involved in vitamin D synthesis upon exposure to sunlight, its primary protective role is against pathogens. Choice C, 'To store nutrients,' is incorrect as the skin is not a primary organ for nutrient storage. Choice D, 'To regulate body temperature,' is a function of the skin, but the primary role in protecting the body is to act as a barrier against pathogens.

3. Which organ in the digestive system absorbs nutrients?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It plays a crucial role in absorbing digested food into the bloodstream, where the nutrients are then circulated to the body's cells for energy and other functions. The stomach primarily breaks down food through the action of acids and enzymes, while the large intestine absorbs water and salts, not nutrients. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach and does not participate in nutrient absorption.

4. What is the meaning of exocytosis?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Exocytosis is the process by which a cell releases substances to the outside by fusing with the plasma membrane. During exocytosis, vesicles containing molecules fuse with the cell membrane, allowing the release of the contents outside the cell. This process is crucial for the secretion of various substances such as hormones, enzymes, and neurotransmitters. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they describe processes different from exocytosis. Choice A describes endocytosis, where the cell engulfs substances to bring them into the cell. Choice C is more aligned with pinocytosis, the process of engulfing liquid material. Choice D refers to phagocytosis, which is the uptake of solid particles by the cell.

5. What is the role of the stomach in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To break down food. The stomach's primary function in digestion is to mechanically and chemically break down food. It achieves this by utilizing gastric acid and digestive enzymes to convert food into chyme, a semi-liquid mixture. The chyme is then passed to the small intestine for further processing and absorption of nutrients. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the stomach's main role is not to absorb nutrients, secrete digestive enzymes, or transport nutrients; instead, it primarily focuses on breaking down food.

Similar Questions

Which of the following is not part of the axial skeletal system?
Which gland is located superior to the kidney?
Which gland is known as the 'master gland'?
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Which cellular structure is responsible for producing energy?

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