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 initiates the process of coagulation?

A. When blood changes from a gel to liquid form.
B. Begins instantly after a blood vessel has been damaged.
C. A simple single-phase response of the blood drying upon contact with the air.
D. Also known as clotting, or the formation of fibrin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The process of coagulation, also known as blood clotting, begins instantly after a blood vessel has been damaged. When a blood vessel is injured, the body quickly responds by initiating a cascade of reactions to form a blood clot, which helps to stop bleeding and promote healing. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because coagulation does not occur just when blood changes from a gel to liquid form, it is not a response of blood drying upon contact with air, and it is not simply the formation of fibrin. The primary trigger for coagulation is vascular injury.

3. What happens to the frequency of a wave if its wavelength decreases while the speed remains constant?

A. Frequency decreases
B. Frequency increases
C. Frequency remains constant
D. Frequency becomes zero

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Frequency increases. Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional in a wave with a constant speed. When the wavelength decreases while the speed remains constant, the frequency must increase to maintain the constant speed of the wave. This relationship is governed by the equation: speed = frequency x wavelength. Choice A is incorrect as frequency increases when wavelength decreases. Choice C is incorrect as the frequency changes in this scenario. Choice D is incorrect as the frequency does not become zero but increases when the wavelength decreases.

4. Which of the following is a function of the large intestine?

A. Absorption of water
B. Production of vitamin K
C. Production of vitamin B
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' The large intestine performs various functions, including the absorption of water, production of vitamin K, and production of some B vitamins. Water absorption is a crucial function of the large intestine, helping to concentrate waste material into feces. Additionally, the large intestine hosts beneficial bacteria that produce vitamin K and some B vitamins, which are absorbed into the body. Choices A, B, and C individually represent specific functions of the large intestine, while choice D correctly encompasses all these functions, making it the most comprehensive and accurate answer.

5. Which organ is responsible for filtering blood and removing waste products?

A. Liver
B. Kidneys
C. Spleen
D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the kidneys. The kidneys filter blood and remove waste products through the formation of urine. The liver primarily functions in detoxification and metabolism. The spleen is involved in blood filtering and immune function. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and insulin, not involved in filtering blood.