which part of the digestive system is primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients

ATI TEAS 7

Practice Science TEAS Test

1. Which part of the digestive system is primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients?

A. Stomach
B. Small intestine
C. Esophagus
D. Large intestine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is lined with specialized cells that facilitate the absorption of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. While the stomach plays a role in digestion by breaking down food with acid and enzymes, the actual absorption of nutrients occurs mainly in the small intestine. The esophagus is responsible for transporting food from the mouth to the stomach, but it does not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients.

2. What is the main difference between a nuclear reactor and a nuclear bomb?

A. Reactors use enriched uranium, while bombs use natural uranium.
B. Reactors have controlled chain reactions, while bombs have uncontrolled chain reactions.
C. Reactors generate electricity, while bombs cause explosions.
D. Reactors use moderators, while bombs don't.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main difference between a nuclear reactor and a nuclear bomb is that reactors have controlled chain reactions, while bombs have uncontrolled chain reactions. Nuclear reactors are designed to sustain a controlled nuclear reaction to generate electricity. In contrast, nuclear bombs are designed to release a massive amount of energy in an uncontrolled chain reaction, resulting in an explosion. Choice A is incorrect because both reactors and bombs can use enriched uranium. Choice C is incorrect as nuclear reactors also generate electricity, not just bombs. Choice D is incorrect because both reactors and bombs may or may not use moderators, but the key distinction lies in the control of the chain reaction.

3. Differentiate between epithelial and connective tissue.

A. Epithelial tissue lines surfaces and glands, while connective tissue supports tendons.
B. Both are composed of cells, but epithelial tissue lines surfaces and glands, while connective tissue binds other tissues.
C. Epithelial tissue covers surfaces and connective tissue supports muscle contraction.
D. Epithelial tissue is the largest tissue type, while connective tissue is the smallest.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Epithelial tissue covers surfaces and lines organs, while connective tissue provides support and structure throughout the body. Both are composed of cells, but their functions and locations differ. Epithelial tissue acts as a barrier to protect underlying tissues and organs, while connective tissue connects, supports, and separates different types of tissues and organs in the body. Choice A is incorrect as connective tissue supports and binds other tissues, not just tendons. Choice C is incorrect because connective tissue does not support muscle contraction; it provides support to various structures in the body. Choice D is incorrect as the size of a tissue type does not define its function; epithelial tissue and connective tissue serve different purposes in the body.

4. How many moles of water are produced when 0.5 moles of methane (CH4) react with excess oxygen?

A. 0.5 moles
B. 1 mole
C. 2 moles
D. 3 moles

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The balanced chemical equation for the combustion of methane is: CH4 + 2O2 -> CO2 + 2H2O. This equation shows that 1 mole of methane produces 2 moles of water. Therefore, when 0.5 moles of methane react, they will produce 1 mole of water. The ratio of water to methane is 2:1, meaning that for every mole of methane that reacts, it produces 2 moles of water. Since only 0.5 moles of methane are reacting, the amount of water produced will be half of what would be produced if 1 mole of methane reacted, resulting in 1 mole of water being produced. Choice A is incorrect because it does not consider the stoichiometry of the reaction. Choices C and D are incorrect as they do not align with the balanced chemical equation and the stoichiometric ratios involved in the reaction.

5. What type of chemical bond connects the oxygen and hydrogen atoms in a molecule of water?

A. Static bond
B. Aquatic bond
C. Ionic bond
D. Covalent bond

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Covalent bond. Covalent bonds are formed between oxygen and hydrogen atoms in a water molecule. In a water molecule, each hydrogen atom forms a covalent bond with the oxygen atom, sharing electrons to achieve a stable configuration. Static bond (choice A) and Aquatic bond (choice B) are not valid types of chemical bonds. Ionic bond (choice C) involves the transfer of electrons between atoms of different electronegativities, which is not the case between oxygen and hydrogen in a water molecule.