what is the primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. What is the primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system?

A. Filtration of air
B. Production of mucus
C. Prevention of food entering the trachea
D. Oxygen exchange in the alveoli

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system is to prevent food from entering the trachea. During swallowing, the epiglottis covers the opening of the trachea, guiding food down the esophagus to the stomach and preventing it from entering the airway. This mechanism safeguards the respiratory system from foreign objects, ensuring proper air passage and avoiding potential choking hazards. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A) Filtration of air is mainly performed by the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. B) Production of mucus is primarily carried out by the mucous glands in the respiratory system to trap particles and humidify the air. D) Oxygen exchange in the alveoli occurs in the lungs and is related to the process of respiration, not the function of the epiglottis.

2. Which of the following enzymes unwinds the double-stranded DNA during replication?

A. Helicase
B. Ligase
C. Nuclease
D. Polymerase

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Helicase is the enzyme responsible for unwinding the double-stranded DNA during replication by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs. This process creates the replication fork where DNA polymerase can then synthesize new DNA strands. Ligase functions to join Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, not unwind DNA. Nuclease is involved in DNA repair by removing damaged DNA segments. Polymerase is responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands based on the existing template strands, not for unwinding the DNA.

3. Which of the following is an example of Mendelian inheritance?

A. Incomplete Dominance
B. Polygenic Alleles
C. Combination Inheritance
D. Recessive Inheritance

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Recessive Inheritance.' Mendelian inheritance involves traits controlled by single genes with dominant and recessive alleles. Incomplete dominance (choice A) is a non-Mendelian inheritance pattern where the heterozygous phenotype is a blend of the two homozygous phenotypes. Polygenic alleles (choice B) involve multiple genes contributing to a single trait, not following Mendelian principles. Combination inheritance (choice C) is not a recognized term in genetics and does not describe Mendelian inheritance patterns.

4. Which of the following is a risk factor for developing kidney stones?

A. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
B. Maintaining adequate hydration with water
C. Having a family history of kidney stones
D. Regularly engaging in moderate exercise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Having a family history of kidney stones is a risk factor for developing kidney stones. Genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones due to inherited traits that affect the body's ability to process and excrete certain substances. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (option A) and maintaining adequate hydration with water (option B) are actually recommended strategies to help prevent kidney stones by promoting overall kidney health. Regularly engaging in moderate exercise (option D) can also be beneficial for kidney health by promoting circulation and overall well-being. Therefore, options A, B, and D are not risk factors but rather beneficial for kidney health.

5. What type of vessel carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other tissues of the body?

A. Veins
B. Intestines
C. Bronchioles
D. Arteries

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to supply oxygen to the tissues and organs throughout the body. Veins, choice A, carry oxygen-poor blood back to the heart, not oxygen-rich blood. Intestines, choice B, are part of the digestive system and do not play a role in carrying blood. Bronchioles, choice C, are small air passages in the lungs responsible for carrying air, not blood.