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. Which of the following situations represents work being done on an object?

A. Pushing against a wall without moving it
B. Carrying a heavy object without lifting it
C. Lifting a box to place it on a shelf
D. Holding a book stationary in your hand

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Work is defined as the product of the force applied to an object and the distance over which the force is applied. In the situation of lifting a box to place it on a shelf, work is being done on the object. This is because lifting the box involves applying a force over a distance (the height of the shelf). The force applied to lift the box results in work being done on the object by raising it against the force of gravity. Choices A, B, and D do not involve work being done on the object as they either do not involve movement against a force (A, D) or do not cover distance against a force (B).

3. What do isotopes of the same element have in common?

A. Identical number of protons and neutrons.
B. Identical chemical properties.
C. Identical number of electrons.
D. Identical mass number.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons, which defines the element, but different numbers of neutrons. This difference in neutron count results in isotopes of the same element having different mass numbers. Chemical properties are determined by the arrangement of electrons in an atom, so isotopes of the same element may exhibit slightly different chemical behaviors due to different neutron numbers. The number of electrons can vary in isotopes, affecting their charge. However, the mass number, which is the sum of protons and neutrons, is the same for isotopes of the same element. Therefore, the correct answer is that isotopes of the same element share an identical mass number.

4. What is the cellular function of cilia and flagella?

A. Cilia and flagella are responsible for cell movement.
B. Cilia and flagella synthesize proteins.
C. Cilia and flagella help protect the cell from its environment.
D. Cilia and flagella have enzymes that help with digestion.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cilia and flagella are responsible for cell movement. Cilia and flagella are specialized structures found on the surface of many types of cells. They are involved in the movement of the cell itself or in moving substances around the cell. This movement helps in various functions such as propulsion, moving fluids, and sensing the environment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Cilia and flagella are not involved in synthesizing proteins, protecting the cell from its environment, or aiding in digestion. Their primary function is related to cell movement and cellular transport.

5. Which of the following terms refers to the degeneration of nerve tissue?

A. Potentiation
B. Demyelination
C. Reuptake
D. Neurogenesis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Demyelination specifically refers to the degeneration of the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers. When demyelination occurs, nerve function and communication can be impaired. Potentiation involves the strengthening of synaptic connections, reuptake is the reabsorption process of neurotransmitters by the presynaptic neuron, and neurogenesis is the generation of new neurons. Therefore, the correct term for the degeneration of nerve tissue among the options provided is demyelination.