HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology
1. Which gland produces hormones that regulate sleep?
- A. Thyroid gland
- B. Pineal gland
- C. Adrenal gland
- D. Pituitary gland
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The pineal gland secretes melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin production is influenced by exposure to light, with levels increasing in the evening to promote sleep and decreasing in the morning to signal wakefulness. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland primarily regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland produces hormones like adrenaline and cortisol related to stress response, and the pituitary gland controls various functions by releasing different hormones but not specifically related to regulating sleep.
2. What type of joint is found in the shoulder?
- A. Ball and socket joint
- B. Hinge joint
- C. Saddle joint
- D. Pivot joint
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is a ball and socket joint. The shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint, allowing for a wide range of motion, including rotation. This joint provides excellent flexibility and mobility, making movements like circular motions and rotations possible. A hinge joint, like the elbow, allows movement in only one plane (flexion and extension). A saddle joint, found in the thumb, allows for a wide range of motion but not as much as a ball and socket joint. A pivot joint, such as the joint between the first and second vertebrae of the neck, allows rotation only.
3. What is the function of the medulla oblongata in the brain?
- A. To control breathing and heart rate
- B. To regulate body temperature
- C. To coordinate voluntary movements
- D. To process sensory information
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: To control breathing and heart rate. The medulla oblongata is a vital part of the brainstem responsible for regulating essential functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. These functions are crucial for maintaining life, and the medulla oblongata plays a key role in ensuring the body's survival. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because regulating body temperature is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus, coordinating voluntary movements is associated with the cerebellum and motor cortex, and processing sensory information is related to the thalamus and sensory cortex, not the medulla oblongata.
4. What is the role of enzymes in the body?
- A. To produce energy
- B. To speed up chemical reactions
- C. To transport molecules
- D. To repair tissues
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate and speed up chemical reactions in the body. They do not produce energy but enable various processes such as digestion and metabolism by lowering the activation energy required for reactions to occur. Choice A is incorrect because enzymes do not produce energy themselves but assist in energy production through reactions. Choice C is incorrect as enzymes do not primarily function in transporting molecules, although some may have a role in specific transport processes. Choice D is incorrect as the primary role of enzymes is not to repair tissues, but rather to catalyze biochemical reactions.
5. Which type of joint is found in the hip?
- A. Hinge joint
- B. Ball and socket joint
- C. Pivot joint
- D. Saddle joint
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ball and socket joint. The hip joint is classified as a ball and socket joint, allowing for a wide range of movement in multiple directions, including rotation. This joint structure provides stability and mobility, making it ideal for the hip's functions in bearing weight and facilitating various movements. Choice A, Hinge joint, is incorrect as hinge joints allow movement in only one plane, like the elbow or knee. Choice C, Pivot joint, is incorrect as pivot joints allow rotation around a single axis, like the joint between the first and second vertebrae. Choice D, Saddle joint, is incorrect as saddle joints are found in the thumb and allow movement in two planes, but they do not describe the hip joint.
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