what is the primary role of the liver in the body
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HESI A2

Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the primary role of the liver in the body?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Detoxifying harmful substances. While the liver does produce bile for digestion and stores nutrients like glycogen, its primary function is to filter and detoxify blood coming from the digestive tract before passing it to the rest of the body. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Producing insulin is mainly done by the pancreas, digesting food is primarily the role of the stomach and intestines, and storing energy is a function of various organs like muscles and fat cells.

2. Which of the following statements best describes endocrine glands?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Endocrine glands are ductless glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream. These hormones are then carried to target organs and tissues throughout the body, where they regulate various physiological functions. The statement 'They secrete chemicals into the blood' accurately describes the function of endocrine glands. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because endocrine glands do not secrete enzymes into ducts, produce sweat, or produce saliva. These functions are typically associated with exocrine glands, sweat glands, and salivary glands, respectively.

3. Which gland is often referred to as the 'master gland'?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it controls the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body. It secretes a variety of hormones that regulate various bodily functions and play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. The thyroid gland (Choice A) plays a role in regulating metabolism, the adrenal gland (Choice C) secretes hormones involved in stress response, and the pineal gland (Choice D) produces melatonin to regulate sleep-wake cycles, but they are not known as the 'master gland' due to their functions.

4. What is the main function of the respiratory system?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the respiratory system is to absorb oxygen from the air into the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide from the body. Oxygen is essential for cellular respiration, the process through which cells generate energy. Carbon dioxide is a waste product expelled during this process. Choice A, 'To transport nutrients,' is incorrect as the respiratory system is not primarily responsible for transporting nutrients. Choice B, 'To regulate body temperature,' is incorrect as the respiratory system's main role is not temperature regulation. Choice D, 'To produce energy,' is incorrect because while oxygen obtained through respiration is used in the energy production process, the respiratory system itself does not directly produce energy.

5. What is the primary function of the integumentary system?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Protecting the body from external damage. The primary function of the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails, is to act as a physical barrier that protects the body from external damage such as pathogens, UV radiation, and mechanical injuries. While the integumentary system does play roles in regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, its main and most crucial function is to provide a protective shield for the body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because although the integumentary system contributes to regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, as well as housing cells involved in the immune response, its primary role is protection.

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