which is a posterior feature of the human leg

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Exam

1. Which is a posterior feature of the human leg?

A. Patella
B. Quadriceps sartorius
C. Triceps brachii
D. Achilles tendon

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is a strong tendon located at the back of the human leg, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. This positioning makes it a posterior feature, situated at the rear of the leg. The patella, also known as the kneecap, is positioned at the front of the leg, making it an anterior feature. The quadriceps sartorius are muscles located in the front of the thigh, not at the back of the leg. Additionally, the triceps brachii is a muscle found in the upper arm, not in the leg, making it an incorrect choice.

2. Which organ is responsible for the production of insulin?

A. Thyroid gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Pancreas
D. Adrenal gland

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pancreas. The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Insulin is crucial for maintaining proper blood sugar levels and is produced by specialized cells within the pancreas known as beta cells. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, and adrenal gland do not produce insulin. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, the pituitary gland releases various hormones that control other glands, and the adrenal gland produces hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

3. Which gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism?

A. Pituitary gland
B. Thyroid gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones, such as thyroxine, that play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy production, and overall growth and development in the body. The pituitary gland, while important for hormone regulation, does not primarily regulate metabolism. The adrenal gland is responsible for producing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which are more related to stress response than direct metabolism regulation. The pineal gland mainly produces melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and not metabolism. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland.

4. How does the lymphatic system work with the circulatory system?

A. The circulatory system produces red blood cells for the lymphatic system.
B. Lymph draws excess fluid from the cells and deposits it into the blood vessels.
C. The heart regulates the production of lymph in the lymph glands.
D. White cells from the lymphatic system eliminate excess red blood cells.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The lymphatic system works with the circulatory system by draining excess fluid and waste products from the spaces between cells, known as interstitial fluid. This excess fluid, now called lymph, is then transported back into the blood circulation through lymphatic vessels. This process helps maintain fluid balance in the body and supports the circulatory system in regulating blood volume and pressure. Choice A is incorrect because the circulatory system does not produce red blood cells for the lymphatic system. Choice C is incorrect as the heart does not regulate lymph production in lymph glands. Choice D is incorrect as white cells from the lymphatic system do not eliminate excess red blood cells. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as lymph draws excess fluid from the cells and deposits it into the blood vessels, aiding in maintaining proper fluid balance and supporting the circulatory system.

5. 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.