which region of the small intestine is the primary site of absorption

ATI TEAS 7

Practice TEAS Science Test

1. Which region of the small intestine is the primary site of absorption?

A. Duodenum
B. Jejunum
C. Ileum
D. Cecum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The jejunum is the correct answer. It is the primary site of nutrient absorption in the small intestine. The duodenum mainly facilitates digestion, the ileum is responsible for further absorption, while the cecum is part of the large intestine and not involved in nutrient absorption.

2. Which of the following glands is responsible for regulating the body's metabolism?

A. Pituitary gland
B. Thyroid gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating the body's metabolism by producing hormones like thyroxine. These hormones play a key role in controlling the body's metabolic rate and energy production. Choice A, the pituitary gland, is often referred to as the 'master gland' but is not primarily responsible for regulating metabolism. Choice C, the adrenal gland, is involved in producing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which are crucial for the body's stress response but not primarily for metabolism. Choice D, the pineal gland, is responsible for producing melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and not directly related to metabolic regulation.

3. What is the difference between alpha decay and beta decay?

A. Both release the same type of particle.
B. Alpha decay releases a helium nucleus, while beta decay releases an electron or positron.
C. Alpha decay is more common than beta decay.
D. They both convert one element into another, but in different ways.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Alpha decay involves the release of a helium nucleus, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. In contrast, beta decay releases an electron (beta-minus decay) or a positron (beta-plus decay). This significant distinction in the particles emitted during the decay processes distinguishes alpha decay from beta decay. Choice A is incorrect because alpha and beta decay release different types of particles. Choice C is incorrect as beta decay is more common than alpha decay in many cases. Choice D is incorrect as it does not specifically address the particles released during alpha and beta decay.

4. The term 'symbiotic relationship' describes an interaction between two organisms where:

A. One organism benefits and the other is unaffected
B. Both organisms are harmed by the interaction
C. One organism benefits and the other is negatively impacted
D. Both organisms benefit from the interaction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a symbiotic relationship, both organisms involved benefit from the interaction. This mutually beneficial relationship can take different forms, such as mutualism where both organisms benefit, commensalism where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected, or parasitism where one organism benefits at the expense of the other. In this case, the term 'symbiotic relationship' specifically refers to a scenario where both organisms derive some form of benefit from their interaction. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not accurately describe a symbiotic relationship. In symbiosis, both organisms benefit, making option D the correct choice.

5. What is the role of the spindle apparatus in cell division?

A. To separate sister chromatids
B. To move chromosomes to opposite poles of the cell
C. To form a new nuclear envelope around each daughter cell
D. To synthesize new DNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The spindle apparatus, composed of microtubules, plays a crucial role in cell division (mitosis and meiosis) by ensuring proper chromosome separation and distribution to opposite poles of the cell. This segregation is vital for creating two genetically identical daughter cells in mitosis or four haploid daughter cells in meiosis. Choice A is incorrect because the separation of sister chromatids is specifically carried out by kinetochore fibers within the spindle apparatus. Choice C is inaccurate as the formation of a new nuclear envelope occurs post chromosome segregation. Choice D is incorrect as DNA synthesis does not occur within the spindle apparatus; it takes place during the S phase of the cell cycle.