which part of the brain controls involuntary actions such as breathing and heart rate
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Quizlet

1. Which part of the brain controls involuntary actions such as breathing and heart rate?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The medulla oblongata, located at the base of the brainstem, controls essential involuntary actions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. It plays a crucial role in maintaining vital functions necessary for survival. The cerebrum is responsible for voluntary actions, conscious thought, and sensory processing, making it an incorrect choice. The cerebellum primarily coordinates movement, balance, and posture, not involuntary actions like breathing and heart rate. The hypothalamus regulates body temperature, thirst, hunger, and controls the endocrine system, but it is not directly responsible for controlling breathing and heart rate.

2. What condition might result from a lack of vitamin C?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Scurvy is the correct answer. Scurvy is a condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the diet. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, and its deficiency leads to symptoms such as weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, joint pain, fatigue, and easy bruising. If left untreated, scurvy can lead to more severe complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition due to insufficient protein intake, pellagra is caused by a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3), and rickets results from a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate.

3. Which organelle in the cell contains the genetic material?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Nucleus. The nucleus is the organelle in the cell that contains the genetic material (DNA). DNA within the nucleus determines the cell's functions and characteristics, making it essential for cell function and replication. Choice A, Ribosome, is responsible for protein synthesis, not genetic material storage. Choice C, Mitochondria, produces energy but does not contain the genetic material. Choice D, Endoplasmic reticulum, is involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism but does not house the genetic material.

4. What is the main function of the circulatory system?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main function of the circulatory system is to transport oxygen and nutrients to the body's cells while removing waste products. Oxygen and nutrients are carried by the blood to various tissues and organs, ensuring they receive essential elements for their proper function. Waste products are then removed from the cells and transported to the appropriate organs for elimination. This process ensures the overall well-being and functionality of the body. Choice B, removing waste products, is partially correct as one of the functions of the circulatory system is indeed to eliminate waste from the body. However, the primary function is to transport oxygen and nutrients. Choice C, regulating body temperature, is incorrect as temperature regulation is mainly controlled by the body's respiratory and integumentary systems. Choice D, protecting organs, is not a primary function of the circulatory system; protection is more closely associated with the immune system and the skeletal system.

5. What is the function of the alveoli in the lungs?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for the exchange of gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, during breathing. Oxygen is taken in and carbon dioxide is released through this process, enabling the body to receive oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. Choice A is incorrect because the alveoli do not absorb oxygen but facilitate the exchange of gases. Choice B is incorrect as the alveoli do not remove carbon dioxide but aid in the exchange of gases. Choice D is incorrect as the alveoli are not involved in regulating blood pressure but in gas exchange.

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