which of the following is a structure found in the upper respiratory

HESI A2

Quizlet HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology

1. Which of the following is a structure found in the upper respiratory tract?

A. Pharynx
B. Larynx
C. Trachea
D. Esophagus

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The pharynx is a structure found in the upper respiratory tract. It serves as a common pathway for both air and food, playing a crucial role in directing air to the trachea and food to the esophagus. The larynx, trachea, and esophagus are important structures in the respiratory and digestive systems, but the pharynx specifically belongs to the upper respiratory tract, making it the correct answer.

2. 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.

3. Which lobe of the brain controls speech production?

A. Frontal lobe
B. Parietal lobe
C. Temporal lobe
D. Occipital lobe

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The frontal lobe of the brain, specifically the left hemisphere in an area known as Broca's area, is responsible for controlling speech production. This region plays a vital role in speech formation and language expression. Damage to the frontal lobe, particularly Broca's area, can lead to language difficulties like expressive aphasia, a condition characterized by trouble speaking fluently. The parietal lobe is more involved in processing sensory information and spatial awareness. The temporal lobe is associated with memory, hearing, and language comprehension. The occipital lobe is primarily responsible for processing visual information.

4. What is the first step in pulmonary circulation?

A. Blood moves toward the heart through the pulmonary veins.
B. The pulmonary artery carries blood from the heart to the lungs.
C. Carbon dioxide is exchanged for oxygen.
D. Oxygenated blood moves through the aorta.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: The pulmonary artery carries blood from the heart to the lungs. The first step in pulmonary circulation involves the right ventricle of the heart pumping deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary artery. The pulmonary artery then carries this deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. This step is crucial for the exchange of carbon dioxide for oxygen to occur in the lungs, facilitating the oxygenation of blood. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the initial step in pulmonary circulation. Option A refers to blood moving away from the heart, option C describes the gas exchange process that occurs in the lungs but not as the first step, and option D mentions oxygenated blood moving through the aorta, which happens after oxygenation in the lungs.

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.