which of the following is the primary function of the cell membrane

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

A. To provide structural support for the cell
B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is to regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selectively permeable barrier, allowing specific molecules to pass through while blocking others. This role is crucial for maintaining the internal environment of the cell by enabling essential nutrients to enter and waste products to exit. While the cell membrane provides some structural support for the cell, its main function is substance transport. Protein and lipid synthesis predominantly occur in organelles like the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, and storing genetic material is the nucleus's responsibility. Therefore, choices C (To synthesize proteins and lipids) and D (To store genetic material) are incorrect as these functions are carried out by other cell organelles, not the cell membrane.

2. What is the primary cause of acne vulgaris, commonly known as acne?

A. Dry skin
B. Clogged pores and excess oil production
C. Bacterial infection alone
D. Vitamin deficiency

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary cause of acne vulgaris is clogged pores and excess oil production. Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to inflammation and acne breakouts. While dry skin, bacterial infection alone, and vitamin deficiency can contribute to acne, they are not the main underlying cause. Therefore, the correct answer is clogged pores and excess oil production, as they form the basis for the development of acne vulgaris.

3. What is the basic structure of an atom?

A. Protons, neutrons, electrons
B. Protons, electrons, ions
C. Neutrons, electrons, ions
D. Protons, ions, molecules

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The basic structure of an atom consists of protons and neutrons located in the nucleus, with electrons orbiting around the nucleus in specific energy levels or shells. Protons carry a positive charge, neutrons carry no charge, and electrons carry a negative charge. This arrangement maintains the overall neutrality of the atom, with the number of protons equaling the number of electrons. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Protons, neutrons, electrons.' Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately represent the fundamental components of an atom. Choice B includes 'ions,' which are charged particles, not fundamental components of an atom. Choice C includes 'ions' and lacks protons. Choice D includes 'ions' and 'molecules,' which are not part of the basic structure of an atom.

4. Which of the following is NOT an example of a homeostatic mechanism?

A. Shivering when the body temperature falls.
B. Increasing heart rate when blood pressure is low.
C. Weight gain when consuming excess calories.
D. Secreting insulin to decrease blood sugar concentration.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Weight gain when consuming excess calories is not an example of a homeostatic mechanism. Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. The other options listed (A, B, and D) involve physiological responses aimed at restoring balance or stability within the body (e.g., regulating body temperature, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels). Shivering, increasing heart rate, and secreting insulin are mechanisms to counteract specific imbalances and maintain internal equilibrium. In contrast, weight gain due to excess calorie intake does not represent a specific regulatory mechanism but rather an outcome of energy imbalance. The body stores excess energy as fat rather than actively regulating a physiological parameter to restore balance.

5. Which brain structure is responsible for processing visual information?

A. Cerebrum
B. Occipital lobe
C. Frontal lobe
D. Brainstem

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The corrected question and choices are accurate. The correct answer is the Occipital lobe. The occipital lobe, located at the back of the brain, is primarily responsible for processing visual information received from the eyes. It plays a crucial role in interpreting and making sense of visual stimuli, allowing us to perceive and understand the world around us. The other choices, cerebrum (A), frontal lobe (C), and brainstem (D), do not have the primary function of processing visual information. The cerebrum is involved in higher brain functions, the frontal lobe is responsible for decision-making and personality, and the brainstem controls basic life functions like breathing and heart rate.