what is the main function of the epiglottis

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Test 7 science

1. What is the main function of the epiglottis?

A. To store bile
B. To absorb nutrients
C. To prevent food from entering the trachea
D. To produce digestive enzymes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the trachea during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action helps direct food and liquids into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach for digestion, while also protecting the respiratory system from potential blockages that could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as the epiglottis is not involved in storing bile, absorbing nutrients, or producing digestive enzymes. Understanding the role of the epiglottis in the swallowing process is crucial for maintaining proper respiratory and digestive functions.

2. What are the subdivisions of the dorsal cavity, located at the back of the human body?

A. Cranial and spinal
B. Dorsal and ventral
C. Lateral and proximal
D. Inferior and superior

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cranial and spinal. The dorsal cavity, situated at the back of the human body, is divided into the cranial cavity (housing the brain) and the spinal cavity (housing the spinal cord). Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the correct subdivisions of the dorsal cavity. Option B (Dorsal and ventral) is incorrect as it confuses the dorsal cavity with the dorsal and ventral body planes. Option C (Lateral and proximal) and option D (Inferior and superior) are incorrect as they refer to different anatomical terms that do not apply to the subdivisions of the dorsal cavity.

3. Which of the following is NOT a major division of the nervous system?

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

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Somatic nervous system. The major divisions of the nervous system are the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, which includes all the nerves outside of the central nervous system. The somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements and reflexes, is a part of the peripheral nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is another subdivision of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion. Therefore, the somatic nervous system is not a major division of the nervous system, making it the correct answer.

4. Which part of the heart is responsible for generating the QRS complex on an ECG?

A. Sinoatrial node (SA node)
B. Atrioventricular node (AV node)
C. Bundle of His
D. Ventricular muscle cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The QRS complex on an ECG represents ventricular depolarization. This electrical activity is generated by the ventricular muscle cells. While the SA node generates the P wave, the AV node delays the impulse, and the Bundle of His and Purkinje fibers assist in rapidly conducting the impulse through the ventricles, it is the ventricular muscle cells that specifically create the QRS complex. Therefore, choice D, Ventricular muscle cells, is the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are primarily involved in initiating and coordinating the electrical impulses in the heart but do not directly generate the QRS complex on an ECG.

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

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To clot blood.' Platelets play a crucial role in the clotting process, forming a plug at the site of blood vessel injury to prevent excessive bleeding. While red blood cells carry oxygen, white blood cells fight infection, and nutrients are transported by plasma, platelets are specifically responsible for blood clotting. Choice A is incorrect because red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen. Choice C is incorrect because white blood cells are primarily involved in fighting infection. Choice D is incorrect as the transport of nutrients is mainly carried out by plasma, not platelets.