which of the following is a function of the large intestine

ATI TEAS 7

Practice TEAS Science Test

1. Which of the following is a function of the large intestine?

A. Absorption of water
B. Production of vitamin K
C. Production of vitamin B
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' The large intestine performs various functions, including the absorption of water, production of vitamin K, and production of some B vitamins. Water absorption is a crucial function of the large intestine, helping to concentrate waste material into feces. Additionally, the large intestine hosts beneficial bacteria that produce vitamin K and some B vitamins, which are absorbed into the body. Choices A, B, and C individually represent specific functions of the large intestine, while choice D correctly encompasses all these functions, making it the most comprehensive and accurate answer.

2. Water is considered a universal solvent due to its ____.

A. Cohesion
B. Adhesion
C. Molarity
D. Dilution

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Adhesion. Water's polarity allows it to dissolve many substances due to its ability to adhere to and interact with other molecules, making it an effective solvent. Cohesion refers to water molecules sticking together, molarity is a measure of concentration, and dilution refers to the process of reducing the concentration of a solute in a solution, none of which directly relate to water's role as a universal solvent.

3. What describes a cell’s reaction to being placed in a hypertonic solution?

A. The cell will shrink as water is pulled out of the cell to equalize the concentrations inside and outside of the cell.
B. The cell will swell as water is pulled into the cell to equalize the concentrations inside and outside of the cell.
C. The cell will remain the same size since the concentrations inside and outside the cell are equal to begin with.
D. The pH inside the cell will drop in order to equalize the pH inside and outside the cell.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A cell placed in a hypertonic solution has a higher solute concentration outside the cell compared to inside. This creates a concentration gradient that causes water to move out of the cell through osmosis to equalize the concentrations on both sides. As a result, the cell will shrink or undergo plasmolysis, as water is pulled out of the cell. Choice B is incorrect because a hypertonic solution causes water to move out of the cell, leading to shrinkage rather than swelling. Choice C is incorrect as a hypertonic solution results in a concentration gradient that leads to water leaving the cell, causing it to shrink. Choice D is incorrect because pH is not directly affected by being placed in a hypertonic solution; the change in solute concentration primarily impacts water movement.

4. How many tissue layers make up the uterus?

A. One.
B. Two.
C. Three.
D. Four.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Three.' The uterus is composed of three tissue layers: the endometrium, myometrium, and perimetrium. The endometrium is the innermost layer that thickens during the menstrual cycle and sheds during menstruation or supports a developing embryo during pregnancy. The myometrium is the middle layer, consisting of muscle tissue that contracts during labor. The perimetrium is the outer layer that covers the uterus. These three layers work together to support the functions of the uterus, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and labor. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the uterus is not made up of just one or two layers but rather three distinct tissue layers.

5. Which part of the brain controls balance and coordination?

A. Cerebrum
B. Cerebellum
C. Medulla
D. Thalamus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The cerebellum is the correct answer as it is the part of the brain responsible for controlling balance and coordination in the body. It receives input from various parts of the brain, spinal cord, and sensory systems to help coordinate voluntary movements. The cerebrum (choice A) is mainly involved in higher brain functions such as thinking, decision-making, and voluntary movements but not specifically balance and coordination. The medulla (choice C) is essential for functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure regulation but not primarily for balance and coordination. The thalamus (choice D) acts as a relay station for sensory information but is not primarily responsible for balance and coordination.