what is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs
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HESI A2

Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the alveoli in the lungs is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for this gas exchange during breathing. Oxygen diffuses from the inhaled air into the blood in the capillaries surrounding the alveoli, while carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled out of the body. Choice A is incorrect because the alveoli primarily facilitate the exchange of gases, not just the removal of carbon dioxide. Choice C is incorrect as the alveoli do not transport oxygen to the bloodstream but rather facilitate the exchange of gases. Choice D is incorrect as the alveoli are not involved in filtering blood but in gas exchange to ensure proper oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide in the respiratory process.

2. If an impulse is traveling from a sense receptor toward the spinal cord, it is traveling along what type of neuron?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sensory neuron. A sensory neuron is responsible for carrying impulses from sensory receptors to the spinal cord. These neurons transmit information about external stimuli from the periphery to the central nervous system for processing and response. Choice A, Motor neuron, is incorrect as motor neurons carry signals from the central nervous system to muscles and glands, enabling movement and secretion. Choice C, Interneuron, is incorrect as interneurons act as connectors between sensory and motor neurons, primarily facilitating communication between the two. Choice D, Bipolar neuron, is incorrect as bipolar neurons are specialized sensory neurons found in some sensory organs like the retina of the eye and the olfactory epithelium.

3. Which hormone is produced by the adrenal cortex?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Cortisol. Cortisol is the hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and managing stress. Insulin is produced by the pancreas, thyroxine by the thyroid gland, and glucagon by the pancreas. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not hormones produced by the adrenal cortex.

4. Which is an anterior feature of the human head?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nose is an anterior feature of the human head, located in the frontal part of the face. It plays a vital role in the respiratory system by allowing air to enter and exit the body. Additionally, the nose contains olfactory receptors that enable the sense of smell. The ears, occipital lobe, and temporal lobe are not anterior features of the human head. The ears are located on the sides, the occipital lobe is at the back of the head, and the temporal lobe is on the sides and base of the cerebral cortex.

5. Which part of the respiratory system is in the upper respiratory tract?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The upper respiratory tract includes structures such as the nose, nasal cavity, pharynx, and larynx. These structures are responsible for filtering, warming, and humidifying the air. The lower respiratory tract comprises the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli. Bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli are all part of the lower respiratory system, involved in gas exchange. Therefore, the correct answer is 'None of the above' as none of the listed options are part of the upper respiratory tract.

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