which part of the brain controls voluntary movement

HESI A2

Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which part of the brain controls voluntary movement?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The cerebrum, specifically the motor cortex located within it, is responsible for controlling voluntary movements such as walking, writing, and speaking. This region of the brain plays a crucial role in coordinating and executing voluntary muscle actions, making it the correct answer in this context. The cerebellum (Choice A) primarily coordinates balance, posture, and coordination of voluntary movements but does not control voluntary movement itself. The brainstem (Choice C) is responsible for basic life functions like breathing and heart rate, not voluntary movements. The medulla oblongata (Choice D) controls vital functions like blood pressure and breathing, not voluntary movement.

2. Which parts of the heart are separated by the mitral valve?

A. Left atrium and right atrium
B. Right atrium and right ventricle
C. Left ventricle and right ventricle
D. Left atrium and left ventricle

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The mitral valve, also known as the bicuspid valve, separates the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart. Its primary function is to prevent the backflow of blood from the left ventricle to the left atrium during the heart's contraction. Therefore, option D, 'Left atrium and left ventricle,' is the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not represent the parts separated by the mitral valve.

3. What is the primary function of the integumentary system?

A. Protecting the body from external damage
B. Regulating body temperature
C. Producing vitamin D
D. Producing red blood cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Protecting the body from external damage. The primary function of the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails, is to act as a physical barrier that protects the body from external damage such as pathogens, UV radiation, and mechanical injuries. While the integumentary system does play roles in regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, its main and most crucial function is to provide a protective shield for the body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because although the integumentary system contributes to regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, as well as housing cells involved in the immune response, its primary role is protection.

4. When the pulmonary valve and aortic valves are open, where can blood flow?

A. Between the two ventricles of the heart
B. From atrium to ventricle within the heart
C. Between the heart and the rest of the body
D. Between the atria in the heart

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When the pulmonary valve and aortic valves are open, blood can flow between the heart and the rest of the body. The pulmonary valve allows blood to flow from the right ventricle to the lungs for oxygenation, while the aortic valve permits blood to flow from the left ventricle to the rest of the body for distribution of oxygen and nutrients. This circulation pathway ensures that oxygen-rich blood is pumped to the body tissues. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because when the pulmonary valve and aortic valves are open, blood is not flowing between the ventricles, from atrium to ventricle, or between the atria; instead, it is being pumped out of the heart to the lungs and the rest of the body.

5. What is the role of the large intestine in the digestive system?

A. Absorbing nutrients
B. Absorbing water and forming solid waste
C. Breaking down fats
D. Secreting digestive enzymes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absorbing water and forming solid waste. The large intestine plays a crucial role in absorbing water from the remaining indigestible food matter and forming solid waste (feces) to be excreted from the body. This process helps in maintaining the body's fluid balance and eliminating waste efficiently. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the large intestine is not primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients, breaking down fats, or secreting digestive enzymes. These functions are mainly carried out in the small intestine.