what is the purpose of a catalyst

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Practice Test

1. What is the purpose of a catalyst?

A. To increase a reaction rate by increasing the activation energy
B. To increase a reaction rate by increasing the temperature
C. To increase a reaction rate by decreasing the activation energy
D. To increase a reaction rate by decreasing the temperature

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The purpose of a catalyst is to increase a reaction's rate by decreasing the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. This allows the reaction to proceed more quickly without being consumed in the process. The catalyst provides an alternate mechanism with a lower activation energy, making it easier for the reactants to convert into products. Choice A is incorrect because a catalyst lowers, not increases, the activation energy. Choice B is incorrect because a catalyst does not affect the temperature directly but provides an alternative pathway for the reaction to occur more easily. Choice D is incorrect because a catalyst does not lower the temperature but facilitates the reaction by lowering the activation energy barrier. Therefore, the correct answer is C, 'To increase a reaction rate by decreasing the activation energy.'

2. Which structure of the endocrine system is responsible for maturing T cells?

A. Hypothalamus
B. Pineal
C. Thymus
D. Thyroid

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The thymus is the primary gland responsible for the maturation of T cells in the immune system. T cells are a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response. The hypothalamus is primarily involved in hormone regulation and maintaining homeostasis. The pineal gland is responsible for secreting melatonin and regulating the sleep-wake cycle. The thyroid gland plays a key role in metabolism regulation through the production of thyroid hormones. Therefore, the correct answer is the thymus because it is specifically associated with the maturation of T cells, making it essential for proper immune function.

3. As a car accelerates from rest, what happens to its kinetic energy and the work done on it?

A. Both kinetic energy and work done increase.
B. Kinetic energy increases, but work done remains constant.
C. Work done increases, but kinetic energy remains constant.
D. Both kinetic energy and work done remain constant.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a car accelerates from rest, its speed and kinetic energy increase. The work done on the car is what increases its kinetic energy, so both kinetic energy and work done increase simultaneously. Option A is correct because acceleration results in an increase in both kinetic energy and the work done on the car. Option B is incorrect because work done is required to increase kinetic energy during acceleration. Option C is incorrect as work done is directly related to the change in kinetic energy. Option D is incorrect as both kinetic energy and work done increase when the car accelerates.

4. What is the primary function of the liver in the digestive system?

A. To absorb water
B. To produce bile
C. To store glucose
D. To regulate metabolism

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The liver's main function in the digestive system is to produce bile. Bile helps in the digestion and absorption of fats by emulsifying them, breaking down large fat globules into smaller droplets that can be acted upon by digestive enzymes. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the liver's primary role in the digestive system is not to absorb water, store glucose, or regulate metabolism. While the liver does have roles in metabolism and glucose regulation, its key function in digestion is bile production.

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

A. Transporting nutrients throughout the body
B. Removing excess fluids and waste products from tissues
C. Producing red blood cells
D. Regulating body temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the lymphatic system is to remove excess fluids, waste products, and toxins from tissues. It maintains fluid balance and supports the immune system by transporting lymph, which contains white blood cells, throughout the body. Choice A is incorrect as nutrient transport is primarily handled by the circulatory system. Choice C is incorrect because red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, not the lymphatic system. Choice D is incorrect as the regulation of body temperature is mainly controlled by the endocrine system and thermoregulatory mechanisms in the body. Therefore, the correct answer is B.