which part of the brain controls breathing and heart rate

ATI TEAS 7

Practice TEAS Science Test

1. Which part of the brain controls breathing and heart rate?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is the correct answer because it is responsible for controlling involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate. The cerebrum (Choice A) is primarily associated with higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary movements, not with regulating basic bodily functions like breathing and heart rate. The thalamus (Choice C) serves as a relay station for sensory information but is not directly involved in controlling breathing and heart rate. The cerebellum (Choice D) plays a role in coordination and balance, not in regulating respiratory and cardiac functions.

2. What is the name of the cartilage flap that covers the trachea during swallowing, preventing food from entering the airway?

A. Epiglottis
B. Glottis
C. Larynx
D. Pharynx

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Epiglottis. The epiglottis is a cartilage flap located at the base of the tongue that covers the trachea during swallowing. Its primary function is to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway and instead directs them towards the esophagus. The glottis (choice B) refers to the space between the vocal cords in the larynx. The larynx (choice C) is the voice box containing the vocal cords responsible for phonation. The pharynx (choice D) is the throat region connecting the mouth and the esophagus, playing a role in both digestion and respiration.

3. The chemical equation below is unbalanced. When it is properly balanced, how many molecules of carbon dioxide (CO2) are produced for each molecule of propane (C3H8) in the reaction? 3C3H8 + 5O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O

A. One Half.
B. Two.
C. Three.
D. Five.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The balanced chemical equation for the combustion of propane is: 3C3H8 + 5O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O. This equation shows that for every 3 molecules of propane (C3H8) consumed, 3 molecules of carbon dioxide (CO2) are produced. Therefore, when properly balanced, 3CO2 are produced for each molecule of propane used. Thus, the correct answer is B: Two. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not reflect the correct stoichiometry as determined by the balanced equation.

4. Which organ helps break down food by grinding it with your teeth?

A. Stomach
B. Esophagus
C. Liver
D. Mouth

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Mouth. The mouth is the organ that helps break down food by grinding it with your teeth. The process of chewing, also known as mastication, breaks down food into smaller pieces, making it easier to swallow and digest. The teeth in the mouth play a crucial role in this initial stage of digestion by physically breaking down food into smaller particles. The other options listed, such as the stomach, esophagus, and liver, do not directly participate in the mechanical breakdown of food through chewing. The stomach is responsible for further digestion through chemical processes, the esophagus is a muscular tube that helps transport food to the stomach, and the liver is primarily involved in metabolic functions and bile production.