what is the primary function of the small intestine

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 Science

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

A. To absorb water
B. To absorb nutrients
C. To store waste
D. To produce enzymes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "To absorb nutrients." The small intestine's primary function is to absorb nutrients from digested food. It plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for the body's functions and energy production. Choice A, "To absorb water," is incorrect because the absorption of water primarily occurs in the large intestine. Choice C, "To store waste," is incorrect as waste is stored in the large intestine before elimination. Choice D, "To produce enzymes," is incorrect because while the small intestine does receive enzymes from other organs to aid in digestion, its primary role is not enzyme production.

2. Identify the element with the electron configuration: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6. To which group and period does this element belong?

A. Group 16, Period 3
B. Group 14, Period 3
C. Group 18, Period 3
D. Group 17, Period 2

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The given electron configuration matches that of Argon, an element found in Group 18 of the periodic table. This element is in the third period, as indicated by the highest energy level (n=3) where electrons are present. Therefore, the correct answer is Group 18, Period 3. Choice A (Group 16, Period 3) corresponds to sulfur, not the given electron configuration. Choice B (Group 14, Period 3) corresponds to silicon, not the given electron configuration. Choice D (Group 17, Period 2) corresponds to chlorine, which is in Period 3 but not in Group 18, making it incorrect for the given electron configuration.

3. What initiates the process of coagulation?

A. When blood changes from a gel to liquid form.
B. Begins instantly after a blood vessel has been damaged.
C. A simple single-phase response of the blood drying upon contact with the air.
D. Also known as clotting, or the formation of fibrin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The process of coagulation, also known as blood clotting, begins instantly after a blood vessel has been damaged. When a blood vessel is injured, the body quickly responds by initiating a cascade of reactions to form a blood clot, which helps to stop bleeding and promote healing. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because coagulation does not occur just when blood changes from a gel to liquid form, it is not a response of blood drying upon contact with air, and it is not simply the formation of fibrin. The primary trigger for coagulation is vascular injury.

4. What is the recommended daily intake of protein for adults to maintain healthy muscle mass?

A. 0.5 grams per kilogram of body weight
B. 1 gram per kilogram of body weight
C. 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight
D. 2 grams per kilogram of body weight

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The recommended daily intake of protein for adults to maintain healthy muscle mass is typically around 1 gram per kilogram of body weight. This amount can vary based on individual factors such as activity level, age, and overall health status. Consuming an adequate amount of protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall health and functioning of the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they suggest protein intake levels that are either too low (A) or unnecessarily high (C and D) for maintaining healthy muscle mass. Excessive protein intake can strain the kidneys and may not provide additional benefits for muscle health beyond the recommended levels.

5. Which of the following is most different from the others?

A. Thyroid gland
B. Stomach
C. Intestines
D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Stomach.' The stomach is an organ of the digestive system responsible for breaking down food through mechanical and chemical digestion. In contrast, the thyroid, intestines, and pancreas are glands. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism through hormone secretion, the intestines aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, and the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes and hormones. Therefore, the stomach is functionally different from the other options as it is an organ involved in digestion, while the others are glands with specific secretory functions.