which hormone is produced by the adrenal cortex

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology

1. Which hormone is produced by the adrenal cortex?

A. Insulin
B. Cortisol
C. Thyroxine
D. Glucagon

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Cortisol. Cortisol is the hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and managing stress. Insulin is produced by the pancreas, thyroxine by the thyroid gland, and glucagon by the pancreas. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not hormones produced by the adrenal cortex.

2. Which part of the eye is responsible for color vision?

A. Cornea
B. Iris
C. Retina
D. Lens

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is option C: Retina. The retina contains photoreceptor cells, including cones that are responsible for color vision. Cones are sensitive to different wavelengths of light, allowing us to perceive and differentiate various colors. Choice A, Cornea, is the transparent outer layer of the eye that helps focus light. It does not play a direct role in color vision. Choice B, Iris, is the colored part of the eye that controls the size of the pupil and regulates the amount of light entering the eye. While it is essential for adjusting light levels, it is not directly involved in color vision. Choice D, Lens, is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. It helps to form clear images on the retina but does not play a role in color vision.

3. Why might certain young people be underweight?

A. They are growing in height faster than they are gaining weight.
B. They eat little protein and too much fat and sugar.
C. They eat several meals a day and fail to exercise enough.
D. They seldom eat a meal that contains foods from all food groups.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Certain young people might be underweight because they are growing in height faster than they are gaining weight. During periods of rapid growth, the body's energy requirements are primarily directed towards height growth rather than weight gain, resulting in some individuals being underweight despite consuming sufficient calories. Choice B is incorrect because the question focuses on reasons related to growth rather than diet composition. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests overeating rather than the specific growth-related issue of height surpassing weight gain. Choice D is incorrect as it addresses nutritional variety rather than the growth dynamics affecting weight.

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

A. To transport oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
B. To regulate body temperature
C. To fight infections
D. To produce energy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream. Oxygen is taken in during inhalation and transported to cells, while carbon dioxide is removed during exhalation as a waste product of cellular metabolism. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the primary function of the respiratory system. Regulating body temperature is mainly controlled by the thermoregulatory system, fighting infections is a function of the immune system, and producing energy is primarily done by the metabolic system.

5. Which vitamin is necessary for the absorption of calcium?

A. Vitamin C
B. Vitamin D
C. Vitamin A
D. Vitamin K

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin D is the correct answer. It is essential for the absorption of calcium in the intestines, facilitating the maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D helps regulate calcium levels in the blood and promotes bone mineralization, making it crucial for overall bone health. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Vitamin C is not directly involved in calcium absorption, Vitamin A is more related to vision and immune function, and Vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting and bone mineralization but is not primarily responsible for calcium absorption.