which of the following describes the primary function of the pyloric sphincter

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

1. What is the primary function of the pyloric sphincter?

A. to regulate the movement of food material from the stomach to the duodenum
B. to neutralize stomach acid
C. to prevent digested food materials and stomach acid from entering the esophagus
D. to begin the process of chemical digestion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the pyloric sphincter is to regulate the flow of partially digested food material (chyme) from the stomach into the small intestine, specifically the duodenum. This control is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is incorrect because neutralizing stomach acid is primarily the function of the stomach lining and antacid mechanisms. Choice C is incorrect because preventing the backflow of digested food materials and stomach acid into the esophagus is mainly the role of the lower esophageal sphincter. Choice D is incorrect because the chemical digestion process primarily starts in the stomach through the action of gastric juices, not the pyloric sphincter.

2. What is involved in the involuntary reflex arc that withdraws your hand from a hot object?

A. Central nervous system only
B. Peripheral nervous system only
C. Both CNS and PNS
D. Sensory neurons only

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The involuntary reflex arc that withdraws your hand from a hot object involves both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). When your hand touches a hot object, sensory neurons in the PNS detect the heat and send signals to the spinal cord in the CNS. The spinal cord processes this information and sends a signal back through motor neurons in the PNS to move your hand away from the hot object. This coordinated response requires the collaboration of both the CNS and PNS to protect the body from harm. Choice A is incorrect because the reflex arc involves more than just the central nervous system. Choice B is incorrect because the reflex arc involves more than just the peripheral nervous system. Choice D is incorrect because the reflex arc also involves motor neurons, not just sensory neurons.

3. What is the structure and function of elastic arteries?

A. They are the smallest arteries and constrict and dilate frequently.
B. They are medium-sized arteries that distribute blood to various organs.
C. They are the largest arteries and stretch and recoil to accommodate blood pressure changes.
D. They are thin-walled arteries that supply blood to the capillaries.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The corrected answer is C. Elastic arteries, like the aorta, are the largest arteries in the body. They possess elastic fibers in their walls, allowing them to stretch and recoil in response to the pulsatile nature of blood flow from the heart. This elasticity helps to maintain blood pressure by absorbing the pressure waves generated by the heart's contractions and ensuring continuous blood flow to the organs. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because elastic arteries are not the smallest arteries, do not constrict and dilate frequently, are not medium-sized arteries for distributing blood to various organs, and are not thin-walled arteries supplying blood to capillaries. Elastic arteries have a specific structure and function related to their ability to accommodate blood pressure changes due to their elastic properties, which is essential for the cardiovascular system's proper functioning.

4. What is the function of the pituitary gland?

A. Produces hormones that regulate growth and metabolism
B. Filters blood and removes waste products
C. Stores and releases bile
D. Produces red blood cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Produces hormones that regulate growth and metabolism. The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it produces and releases hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response. It does not filter blood or remove waste products (option B), store and release bile (option C), or produce red blood cells (option D). The pituitary gland's primary role is in hormone production and regulation, influencing many essential functions in the body.

5. What is the stoichiometric coefficient of nitrogen (N2) in the balanced equation for the Haber process: N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3?

A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the balanced equation for the Haber process: N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3, the stoichiometric coefficient of nitrogen (N2) is 1. This means that one molecule of nitrogen reacts with three molecules of hydrogen to produce two molecules of ammonia. The coefficient '1' indicates the mole ratio of N2 in the reaction. Choice B, 2, is incorrect because it represents the coefficient for ammonia (NH3) in the balanced equation. Choice C, 3, is incorrect as it corresponds to the coefficient of hydrogen (H2). Choice D, 4, is not the correct stoichiometric coefficient for nitrogen (N2) in this equation.