what is the largest muscle in the human body

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. Which muscle is the largest in the human body?

A. Gluteus maximus (buttocks)
B. Quadriceps femoris (thighs)
C. Erector spinae (back)
D. Pectoralis major (chest)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, the gluteus maximus (buttocks). The gluteus maximus is indeed the largest muscle in the human body, located at the back of the hip and stretching from the sacrum to the femur. This muscle is crucial for hip joint extension, playing a significant role in various activities such as walking, running, and climbing stairs. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. While the quadriceps femoris, erector spinae, and pectoralis major are also important muscles, they are not the largest muscle in the human body.

2. Which of the following is an example of a zoonotic disease?

A. The common cold
B. Influenza (the flu)
C. Malaria
D. HIV/AIDS

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Influenza is an example of a zoonotic disease as it can be transmitted from animals such as birds and pigs to humans. The common cold (option A) is caused by human rhinoviruses and is not considered a zoonotic disease. Malaria (option C) is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes and is not considered a zoonotic disease. HIV/AIDS (option D) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus and is not considered a zoonotic disease.

3. What is the function of arrector pili muscles?

A. To control sweat production
B. To contract and cause goosebumps
C. To produce sebum
D. To sense touch

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct function of arrector pili muscles is to contract and cause goosebumps. These small muscles are attached to hair follicles in mammals. When they contract, they cause the hair to stand on end, resulting in goosebumps. This physiological response is often triggered by cold temperatures or emotional states like fear, helping mammals conserve heat or appear larger in threatening situations. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Arrector pili muscles are not involved in controlling sweat production (Choice A), producing sebum (Choice C), or sensing touch (Choice D).

4. What is the purpose of genetic counseling?

A. To treat genetic disorders.
B. To diagnose genetic diseases in newborns.
C. To provide information and support to individuals and families with genetic risks.
D. To collect DNA samples for research purposes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The purpose of genetic counseling is to provide information and support to individuals and families with genetic risks. Genetic counselors aim to explain the implications of genetic testing, discuss risks and options, and offer emotional and psychological support to help individuals make informed decisions regarding their genetic health. Choice A is incorrect because genetic counseling is not focused on treatment but rather on providing information and support. Choice B is incorrect as genetic counselors do not primarily diagnose genetic diseases in newborns but rather provide guidance and support based on existing diagnoses. Choice D is not the purpose of genetic counseling; genetic counselors do not collect DNA samples for research purposes but instead focus on assisting individuals and families in understanding and managing their genetic risks.

5. Which division of the nervous system is responsible for involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate?

A. Somatic nervous system
B. Autonomic nervous system
C. Peripheral nervous system
D. Central nervous system

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The autonomic nervous system is the correct answer. It is responsible for controlling involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, and other automatic processes in the body. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements, making choice A incorrect. The peripheral nervous system consists of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, which is not directly responsible for these involuntary functions, making choice C incorrect. The central nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord, but it is not primarily responsible for regulating involuntary functions, making choice D incorrect.