what is the function of the stomach in digestion
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HESI A2

Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test

1. What is the function 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 break down food mechanically and chemically. It accomplishes this by mixing food with gastric acid and digestive enzymes, resulting in the formation of chyme, a semi-liquid mixture that moves on to further digestion in the small intestine. Choice A is incorrect because the absorption of nutrients occurs mainly in the small intestine, not in the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because while the stomach does secrete digestive enzymes like pepsin, its primary role is not just limited to enzyme secretion. Choice D is incorrect because the storage of glucose primarily occurs in the liver and muscles, not in the stomach.

2. Which organ system is primarily responsible for generating antibodies?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: The lymphatic system. Antibodies are produced by specialized white blood cells called B-lymphocytes (or B cells) in response to foreign substances known as antigens. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, tonsils, thymus, and spleen, which work together to produce and store antibodies to help the body fight off infections and diseases. Choice A, the endocrine system, is incorrect because it is responsible for hormone regulation, not antibody production. Choice B, the digestive system, is incorrect because its main function is to break down food and absorb nutrients, not produce antibodies. Choice D, the nervous system, is incorrect as it is responsible for transmitting signals throughout the body and coordinating body functions, not generating antibodies.

3. What is the primary function of the skin in the integumentary system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the skin in the integumentary system is to protect the body from external damage. The skin acts as a barrier against pathogens, UV radiation, and physical trauma. While the skin does help regulate body temperature by sweating and vasodilation, its main role is protection. Skin does not produce red blood cells; this is the function of the bone marrow. Hormones are primarily produced by endocrine glands, not the skin.

4. Which gland is known as the 'master gland'?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pituitary gland, often referred to as the 'master gland,' is the correct answer. It is responsible for regulating the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body. The pituitary gland controls various bodily functions and plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance, making it a central and vital component of the endocrine system. The other options, such as the thyroid gland (A), adrenal gland (C), and pineal gland (D), have important functions in the endocrine system but are not specifically known as the 'master gland.'

5. 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.

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