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 is the function of the gallbladder in the digestive system?
- A. To produce bile
- B. To store and concentrate bile
- C. To detoxify harmful substances
- D. To regulate blood sugar
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The gallbladder's main function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver. Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as the gallbladder acts as a reservoir for bile rather than producing it. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the gallbladder does not produce bile, detoxify harmful substances, or regulate blood sugar in the digestive system.
3. Which type of muscles are involved in peristalsis?
- A. Smooth muscles
- B. Cardiac muscles
- C. Skeletal muscles
- D. Epaxial muscles
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Peristalsis is a coordinated, wave-like muscular contraction that propels food and other materials through the digestive tract. Smooth muscles are responsible for this movement in the gastrointestinal tract, providing the involuntary contractions needed for peristalsis to occur. Skeletal muscles, cardiac muscles, and epaxial muscles are not directly involved in peristalsis. Cardiac muscles are found in the heart and are responsible for its contraction. Skeletal muscles are attached to bones and control voluntary movements. Epaxial muscles are located along the vertebral column and are involved in the movement and stabilization of the spine.
4. What is the function of the stomach in the digestive system?
- A. To absorb nutrients
- B. To break down food
- C. To produce bile
- D. To store waste
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To break down food.' The stomach plays a crucial role in the digestive system by breaking down food using gastric acid and digestive enzymes. This process transforms the food into a semi-liquid mixture known as chyme, which is further digested in the small intestine. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the stomach does not primarily absorb nutrients, produce bile, or store waste. These functions are carried out by other organs in the digestive system such as the small intestine, liver, and large intestine, respectively.
5. Which brain region is involved in memory formation?
- A. Cerebellum
- B. Hippocampus
- C. Brainstem
- D. Frontal lobe
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The hippocampus, located in the temporal lobe, is crucial for memory formation. It plays a vital role in converting short-term memories into long-term memories. Damage to the hippocampus can lead to significant memory deficits, highlighting its importance in the memory process. The cerebellum (Choice A) is primarily involved in coordination and balance, not memory. The brainstem (Choice C) is responsible for basic life functions such as breathing and heart rate, not memory. The frontal lobe (Choice D) is associated with functions like decision-making, problem-solving, and emotions, but not primarily memory formation.
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