HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology
1. Which gland regulates the body's metabolic rate?
- A. Pituitary gland
- B. Thyroid gland
- C. Adrenal gland
- D. Pineal gland
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating the body's metabolic rate by producing hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a crucial role in controlling the body's metabolism, affecting processes like growth, energy production, and temperature regulation. The pituitary gland is known as the 'master gland' but primarily regulates other endocrine glands by releasing hormones that stimulate their function. The adrenal gland is responsible for producing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which are involved in the body's response to stress. The pineal gland secretes melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythms, but is not directly involved in regulating metabolic rate.
2. Which of the following epithelial types is correctly matched with its major function?
- A. Simple squamous epithelium – diffusion
- B. Stratified squamous epithelium – protection
- C. Stratified squamous epithelium – diffusion
- D. Simple columnar epithelium – secretion or absorption
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Simple columnar epithelium is indeed primarily responsible for secretion and absorption due to its tall shape and presence of microvilli, which increase surface area for these functions. Simple squamous epithelium is mainly involved in diffusion, allowing for the exchange of gases or nutrients. Stratified squamous epithelium functions more for protection against mechanical stress and pathogens, as it forms a tough, protective barrier due to its many layers.
3. What is the main component of the cell membrane?
- A. Proteins
- B. Carbohydrates
- C. Lipids
- D. Nucleic acids
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The main component of the cell membrane is the phospholipid bilayer, which is primarily composed of lipids. Lipids form a barrier that separates the interior of the cell from the external environment, providing structural integrity and regulating the passage of substances in and out of the cell. Proteins are also essential components of the cell membrane, serving various functions such as transport, signaling, and cell recognition. Carbohydrates are present in the form of glycoproteins and glycolipids on the cell membrane surface, contributing to cell-cell recognition. Nucleic acids are not a primary component of the cell membrane.
4. How does the integumentary system interact with the nervous system?
- A. The integumentary system removes heat from the neurons in the nervous system.
- B. The nervous system circulates nutrients outward to the integumentary system.
- C. Touch input via the integumentary system sends messages to the nervous system.
- D. Messages from the nervous system affect the color and texture of the skin.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Touch input via the integumentary system sends messages to the nervous system. The integumentary system, comprising the skin, hair, and nails, functions as a sensory organ and a protective barrier against external threats. Specialized receptors in the skin detect stimuli like pressure, temperature, and pain, transmitting signals to the nervous system for interpretation. This communication enables the perception of touch and is vital for sensory processes, showcasing the interconnectedness between the integumentary and nervous systems. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the integumentary system primarily interacts with the nervous system through sensory input and communication of stimuli, rather than heat removal, nutrient circulation, or affecting skin color and texture based on nervous system messages.
5. Through which organ do muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis?
- A. Mouth
- B. Small intestine
- C. Epiglottis
- D. Esophagus
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Esophagus. Muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis in the esophagus. Peristalsis is a coordinated muscular contraction that helps move food from the mouth to the stomach through the esophagus. The rhythmic contractions of the esophageal muscles create a wave-like motion that propels food downward toward the stomach for digestion. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the mouth is where digestion begins but does not push food into the stomach, the small intestine is mainly responsible for absorbing nutrients, and the epiglottis is a flap that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing, not involved in pushing food into the stomach.
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