what is the function of the small intestine

HESI A2

Quizlet HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology

1. What is the function of the small intestine?

A. To store bile
B. To absorb nutrients
C. To digest food
D. To produce enzymes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the digested food into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. Therefore, the correct function of the small intestine is to absorb nutrients. Choice A is incorrect because the gallbladder stores bile, not the small intestine. Choice C is incorrect because the digestion process primarily occurs in the stomach and small intestine. Choice D is incorrect because while the small intestine does play a role in enzyme production, its primary function is nutrient absorption.

2. What is the primary function of platelets in the blood?

A. To carry oxygen
B. To fight infections
C. To clot blood
D. To transport nutrients

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To clot blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, have a primary function in blood clotting. They help in the process of coagulation, forming clots to prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. Platelets play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the circulatory system by sealing off damaged blood vessels and promoting wound healing. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because platelets do not carry oxygen, fight infections, or transport nutrients in the blood.

3. Which vitamin is necessary for the formation of collagen?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin C
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a crucial protein that plays a significant role in maintaining the structural integrity of skin, blood vessels, and bones. Collagen is responsible for the strength, elasticity, and firmness of these tissues. Without sufficient vitamin C, the body cannot form collagen properly, leading to various health issues like scurvy, impaired wound healing, and fragile blood vessels. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Vitamin A plays a role in vision, immune function, and skin health. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function, while Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

4. How do the muscular and skeletal systems collaborate to facilitate movement?

A. Muscles attached to tendons contract to bend the skeleton at the joints.
B. The hard bones of the skeleton protect the voluntary muscles of the limbs.
C. The cardiac muscles produce calcium that is needed for sturdy bones.
D. Smooth muscles on internal organs leach excess minerals from the bones.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The muscular system and the skeletal system collaborate to facilitate movement. Muscles are connected to bones through tendons and contract to generate movement at the joints. When muscles contract, they exert force on the bones, resulting in actions like bending the arm or leg. This coordinated effort between muscles and bones is crucial for various activities such as walking, running, and grasping objects. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the interaction between the muscular and skeletal systems. The skeletal system's primary role is to provide structural support and protect internal organs, while cardiac muscles are responsible for heart function and not bone strength. Smooth muscles are found in internal organs and are not involved in leaching excess minerals from bones.

5. How many bones are in the human foot?

A. 6
B. 16
C. 26
D. 36

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 26. The human foot consists of 26 bones, including tarsal bones, metatarsal bones, and phalanges. These bones collaborate to offer support, flexibility, and stability for various activities like standing, walking, and running. Choice A (6) is incorrect as it is too low for the number of bones in the human foot. Choice B (16) is incorrect as it underestimates the actual number of bones in the foot. Choice D (36) is incorrect as it overestimates the number of bones in the human foot.