which organ is primarily responsible for detoxification in the body

ATI TEAS 7

Science TEAS Practice Test

1. Which organ is primarily responsible for detoxification in the body?

A. Kidney
B. Liver
C. Lung
D. Heart

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The liver is the primary organ responsible for detoxifying chemicals and metabolizing drugs in the body. It plays a crucial role in breaking down toxins, filtering blood, and producing bile, making it essential for overall detoxification processes. The kidney primarily filters waste and excess substances from the blood to form urine. Lungs are responsible for gas exchange, not detoxification. The heart is responsible for pumping blood and does not play a direct role in detoxification processes.

2. Which of the following is an example of a weak acid?

A. Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
B. Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
C. Acetic acid (CH3COOH)
D. Nitric acid (HNO3)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Acetic acid (CH3COOH) because it is a weak acid that only partially dissociates in water, resulting in a lower concentration of H+ ions compared to strong acids like hydrochloric acid (HCl), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and nitric acid (HNO3) which completely dissociate in water. Weak acids do not fully ionize in water, leading to a lower concentration of H+ ions in solution. Hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid are strong acids that completely dissociate in water, producing a higher concentration of H+ ions. Therefore, they are not examples of weak acids.

3. A person who carries a pathogen but does not exhibit any symptoms is considered:

A. Asymptomatic carrier
B. Opportunistic pathogen
C. Nosocomial infection
D. Vector-borne disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An asymptomatic carrier is a person who carries a pathogen, such as a virus or bacterium, without showing any symptoms of the infection. Despite lacking symptoms, asymptomatic carriers can still transmit the pathogen to others, potentially causing illness in those they contact. This term specifically pertains to infected individuals who do not manifest symptoms, distinguishing them from symptomatic carriers who do exhibit signs of the infection. Option A is the most fitting choice as it accurately characterizes a person carrying a pathogen without displaying symptoms. B) Opportunistic pathogen: This term describes pathogens that typically do not cause disease in healthy individuals but can be pathogenic in those with weakened immune systems. C) Nosocomial infection: This term refers to infections acquired in a hospital or healthcare facility. D) Vector-borne disease: This term relates to diseases transmitted to humans by vectors like mosquitoes or ticks.

4. What might happen if blood sugar begins to drop in the human body?

A. The pancreas releases insulin.
B. The liver releases stored glucose.
C. The liver stores glucose as glycogen.
D. The pancreas releases glucagon.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When blood sugar levels drop in the body, the pancreas releases glucagon. Glucagon acts to increase blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Choice A is incorrect because the release of insulin lowers blood sugar levels, opposite of what happens when blood sugar is dropping. Choice B is incorrect as the liver releases stored glucose in response to low blood sugar, not when blood sugar is already dropping. Choice C is also incorrect as the liver stores glucose as glycogen but doesn't directly impact blood sugar levels dropping in the moment.

5. Which of the following best describes the function of the pericardium?

A. Regulating blood flow through valves within the heart.
B. Acting as a protective sac surrounding the heart.
C. Generating the electrical impulses for heart contractions.
D. Transmitting electrical signals between the atria and ventricles.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pericardium is a double-layered sac that surrounds and protects the heart. Its main functions include preventing overfilling of the heart, providing a physical barrier against infection and inflammation, and reducing friction between the heart and surrounding structures. Choices A, C, and D do not accurately describe the function of the pericardium. Option B is the correct answer as it aligns with the protective and supportive role of the pericardium, distinguishing it from the functions attributed to choices A, C, and D.