what is the main function of the digestive system
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Quizlet

1. What is the main function of the digestive system?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main function of the digestive system is to break down food into nutrients through the process of digestion. Once the food is broken down, the nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream and utilized by the body for various functions. Choice B, regulating body temperature, is incorrect as it is the function of the body's thermoregulatory system, not the digestive system. Choice C, transporting nutrients, is incorrect as the digestive system primarily focuses on breaking down and absorbing nutrients rather than transporting them. Choice D, producing hormones, is also incorrect as hormone production is mainly carried out by endocrine glands and not the digestive system.

2. Which vitamin is important for the absorption of iron?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for the absorption of iron, especially from plant-based sources. It aids in converting non-heme iron (found in plants) into a form that is easier for the body to absorb. This is crucial in preventing iron-deficiency anemia, making Vitamin C a key nutrient for overall health. Vitamin D (choice B) is important for calcium absorption and bone health, not iron absorption. Vitamin K (choice C) plays a role in blood clotting and bone metabolism, not iron absorption. Vitamin B12 (choice D) is important for red blood cell formation and neurological function but is not directly involved in iron absorption.

3. Which organelle is responsible for generating energy within a cell?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Mitochondria are commonly referred to as the powerhouses of the cell as they are primarily responsible for generating energy through cellular respiration. This process involves converting nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the main energy currency of the cell. The nucleus is responsible for storing the cell's genetic material, the ribosome is involved in protein synthesis, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for packaging and distributing molecules produced by the cell; therefore, they are not directly involved in energy generation.

4. What is the function of the gallbladder?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To store and concentrate bile. The gallbladder's primary function is to store and concentrate bile, which is produced by the liver. Bile is released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. It helps in emulsifying fats and facilitating their breakdown by enzymes for better absorption. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the gallbladder does not produce bile (it is produced by the liver), detoxify harmful substances, or directly break down fats. Its main role is to store and concentrate bile before releasing it into the small intestine.

5. What is the primary function of the small intestine in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absorbing nutrients. The small intestine plays a crucial role in digestion by absorbing nutrients. It is where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs, allowing digested food to pass into the bloodstream for distribution to the body's cells. Choice A (Breaking down fats) is incorrect because the breakdown of fats primarily occurs in the small intestine with the help of bile from the liver and enzymes from the pancreas. Choice C (Secreting digestive enzymes) is incorrect because while the small intestine does produce some digestive enzymes, its primary role is absorption. Choice D (Storing bile) is incorrect as the storage of bile occurs in the gallbladder, not the small intestine.

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