HESI A2
HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology 2023
1. Which of the following hormones is responsible for regulating metabolism?
- A. Insulin
- B. Thyroxine
- C. Glucagon
- D. Cortisol
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Thyroxine, produced by the thyroid gland, is the hormone responsible for regulating metabolism. It plays a fundamental role in controlling the body's metabolic rate, affecting processes such as energy production and utilization. Thyroxine also influences growth and development in the body. Choice A, Insulin, is involved in regulating blood sugar levels and promoting the storage of glucose. While insulin has an impact on metabolism, it is not primarily responsible for regulating overall metabolic rate. Choice C, Glucagon, acts in opposition to insulin, stimulating the release of glucose from the liver to increase blood sugar levels. Glucagon primarily targets glucose regulation rather than overall metabolism. Choice D, Cortisol, is known as the stress hormone and plays a role in the body's response to stress, regulation of blood pressure, immune function, and anti-inflammatory actions. While cortisol can have some effects on metabolism during stress responses, it is not the primary hormone responsible for regulating overall metabolic rate.
2. Which organ system is primarily responsible for storing minerals?
- A. The skeletal system
- B. The endocrine system
- C. The lymphatic system
- D. The cardiovascular system
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The skeletal system is primarily responsible for storing minerals in the body. Bones serve as a storage site for essential minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which are important for various bodily functions including bone strength, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling. The minerals stored in bones can be released into the bloodstream as needed to maintain optimal mineral levels in the body. The endocrine system is responsible for hormone regulation, not mineral storage. The lymphatic system is involved in immune function and fluid balance, not mineral storage. The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body, not storing minerals.
3. 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.
4. Which cellular structure is responsible for protein synthesis?
- A. Nucleus
- B. Ribosome
- C. Endoplasmic reticulum
- D. Golgi apparatus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ribosome. Ribosomes, the cellular structures located in the cytoplasm or on the endoplasmic reticulum, are responsible for protein synthesis in the cell. They are the sites where mRNA is translated into proteins, making them essential for the synthesis of proteins in all living cells. The other choices, such as the nucleus (choice A), endoplasmic reticulum (choice C), and Golgi apparatus (choice D), are not directly involved in protein synthesis. The nucleus contains DNA and is responsible for housing the genetic material, the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein folding and transport, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins.
5. What is the primary function of the hypothalamus?
- A. Regulates body balance and thermoregulation
- B. Controls hunger and thirst
- C. Regulates sleep and circadian rhythms
- D. Controls voluntary movements
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The primary function of the hypothalamus is to regulate body balance and thermoregulation. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall body equilibrium by controlling functions such as body temperature and water balance. While the hypothalamus is also involved in hunger and thirst regulation, its main role is to ensure homeostasis by monitoring and adjusting body balance and temperature. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hunger and thirst regulation, sleep and circadian rhythm regulation, and control of voluntary movements are secondary functions of the hypothalamus compared to its primary role in maintaining body balance and thermoregulation.
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