what is the primary function of the large intestine

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Practice Test Science

1. What is the primary function of the large intestine?

A. To digest food
B. To absorb water and form feces
C. To absorb proteins
D. To regulate blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water from digested food and form feces for elimination. It does not primarily digest food, absorb proteins, or regulate blood pressure. Choice A is incorrect because the large intestine does not digest food but rather absorbs nutrients and water. Choice C is incorrect as the absorption of proteins primarily occurs in the small intestine. Choice D is incorrect as the regulation of blood pressure is not a primary function of the large intestine.

2. Which of the following is NOT an element of the respiratory system?

A. Ribs
B. Trachea
C. Diaphragm
D. Alveoli

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ribs. The ribs are part of the skeletal system, providing structure and protection to the thoracic cavity. The trachea, diaphragm, and alveoli are all essential components of the respiratory system. The trachea carries air to and from the lungs, the diaphragm aids in breathing by contracting and relaxing to change the volume of the thoracic cavity, and the alveoli are tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs in the lungs. Therefore, ribs do not play a direct role in the respiratory process and are not considered a part of the respiratory system.

3. Which of the following neurotransmitters slows down the activity of neurons to prevent overexcitation?

A. Acetylcholine
B. Dopamine
C. GABA
D. Serotonin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that slows down neuronal activity, helping to prevent overexcitation in the brain. It counterbalances the effects of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of neuronal activity in the brain. Acetylcholine (Choice A) is primarily an excitatory neurotransmitter involved in muscle movement and cognitive functions. Dopamine (Choice B) plays a role in reward-motivated behavior and motor control. Serotonin (Choice D) is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep but is not primarily responsible for slowing down neuronal activity to prevent overexcitation.

4. How does the Pauli exclusion principle relate to the structure of the atom?

A. It defines the maximum number of electrons allowed in each energy level.
B. It explains why oppositely charged particles attract each other.
C. It describes the wave-particle duality of electrons.
D. It determines the arrangement of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The Pauli exclusion principle states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of quantum numbers. This principle directly influences the structure of the atom by defining the maximum number of electrons allowed in each energy level. As a result, it helps determine the electron configuration and the arrangement of electrons in different orbitals within an atom. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the Pauli exclusion principle's specific impact on the electron distribution within an atom.

5. A researcher wants to conduct qualitative research. Which method should they use?

A. Collecting patient narratives
B. Tracking the dosage of a drug and its blood levels in the patient
C. Observing a patient's physical changes
D. Writing journal notes about the research experience

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Qualitative research focuses on gathering non-numerical, descriptive data to explore experiences, behaviors, or perspectives. Collecting patient narratives aligns with qualitative research as it involves capturing detailed accounts of individuals' experiences or viewpoints. Choices B, C, and D involve more quantitative approaches by focusing on measurable quantities, observations, or structured note-taking, which are not characteristic of qualitative research methods.