what is the main function of the endocrine system
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HESI A2

Quizlet HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the endocrine system is to regulate various body functions by releasing hormones, which act as chemical messengers. These hormones help maintain homeostasis, regulate metabolism, growth, development, and other essential functions in the body. Option A is incorrect as fighting infections is primarily the role of the immune system, not the endocrine system. Option C is incorrect as the production of red blood cells mainly occurs in the bone marrow. Option D is incorrect as the transportation of oxygen is primarily carried out by the respiratory and circulatory systems. Therefore, option B is the correct answer as it accurately describes the primary role of the endocrine system.

2. What condition might result from a lack of vitamin C?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Scurvy is the correct answer. Scurvy is a condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the diet. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, and its deficiency leads to symptoms such as weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, joint pain, fatigue, and easy bruising. If left untreated, scurvy can lead to more severe complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition due to insufficient protein intake, pellagra is caused by a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3), and rickets results from a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate.

3. What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Remove carbon dioxide from the body. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to return excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream and assist in the body's defense against infections by filtering out harmful pathogens and foreign particles. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen to cells is mainly done by the circulatory system, hormone production is primarily carried out by endocrine glands, and nutrient transport is also a function of the circulatory system and the digestive system, not the lymphatic system.

4. What is the role of enzymes in the body?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate and speed up chemical reactions in the body. They do not produce energy but enable various processes such as digestion and metabolism by lowering the activation energy required for reactions to occur. Choice A is incorrect because enzymes do not produce energy themselves but assist in energy production through reactions. Choice C is incorrect as enzymes do not primarily function in transporting molecules, although some may have a role in specific transport processes. Choice D is incorrect as the primary role of enzymes is not to repair tissues, but rather to catalyze biochemical reactions.

5. What is the role of the spleen in the immune system?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The spleen plays a crucial role in the immune system by filtering blood, specifically removing old or damaged red blood cells. It also stores lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help fight infections. While the spleen does not produce white blood cells or antibodies, its main functions lie in blood filtration and storage of immune cells. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B is incorrect because the spleen does not produce white blood cells. Choice C is incorrect as the spleen stores lymphocytes but does not primarily function to do so. Choice D is incorrect because the spleen does not produce antibodies.

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