what is the primary function of platelets
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HESI A2

Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test

1. What is the primary function of platelets?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of platelets, or thrombocytes, is to clot blood. Platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis by forming clots to prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. They are not directly involved in fighting infections, carrying oxygen, or transporting nutrients. Therefore, the correct answer is B.

2. What is the meaning of endocytosis?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Endocytosis is a cellular process where the cell engulfs and internalizes solid particles by forming vesicles. It is a mechanism used for nutrient uptake, cell signaling, and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Options B, C, and D describe processes that are opposite to endocytosis. Choice B is incorrect because it describes pinocytosis, which is the process of engulfing liquid material. Choice C is incorrect as it describes exocytosis, the process of expelling material from the cell. Choice D is incorrect as it describes the process of releasing liquid material from the cell. Therefore, the correct answer is A.

3. Which organ is responsible for the production of insulin?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pancreas. The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Insulin is crucial for maintaining proper blood sugar levels and is produced by specialized cells within the pancreas known as beta cells. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, and adrenal gland do not produce insulin. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, the pituitary gland releases various hormones that control other glands, and the adrenal gland produces hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

4. Through which organ do muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Esophagus. Muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis in the esophagus. Peristalsis is a coordinated muscular contraction that helps move food from the mouth to the stomach through the esophagus. The rhythmic contractions of the esophageal muscles create a wave-like motion that propels food downward toward the stomach for digestion. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the mouth is where digestion begins but does not push food into the stomach, the small intestine is mainly responsible for absorbing nutrients, and the epiglottis is a flap that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing, not involved in pushing food into the stomach.

5. Where does primary peristalsis occur?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Primary peristalsis occurs in the esophagus. Peristalsis is the coordinated muscular contractions that propel food through the digestive tract. In the esophagus, primary peristalsis is the involuntary wave-like contractions that push food from the mouth to the stomach. It is the natural and automatic process that occurs to facilitate the movement of food during digestion. The stomach (choice B), nervous system (choice C), and small intestine (choice D) are not the primary sites where peristalsis occurs in the digestive system.

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