which structure in the ear is responsible for hearing
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test

1. Which structure in the ear is responsible for hearing?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cochlea, located in the inner ear, is responsible for detecting sound waves and converting them into neural signals that are sent to the brain for processing. It plays a crucial role in the process of hearing by translating mechanical vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret as sound. The semicircular canals (Choice B) are responsible for balance and detecting head movements, not hearing. The ossicles (Choice C) are three tiny bones in the middle ear that transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the cochlea. The Eustachian tube (Choice D) helps equalize pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere, but it is not directly involved in the process of hearing.

2. Which gland is often referred to as the 'master gland'?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it controls the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body. It secretes a variety of hormones that regulate various bodily functions and play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. The thyroid gland (Choice A) plays a role in regulating metabolism, the adrenal gland (Choice C) secretes hormones involved in stress response, and the pineal gland (Choice D) produces melatonin to regulate sleep-wake cycles, but they are not known as the 'master gland' due to their functions.

3. Which of the following describes the process of osmosis?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Osmosis is the process where water molecules move across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. This movement of water helps to equalize the concentration of solutes on both sides of the membrane. The correct description of osmosis is the movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane, making choice B the right answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules, not solutes, gases, or ions across a membrane.

4. What is the function of the small intestine?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the digested food into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. Therefore, the correct function of the small intestine is to absorb nutrients. Choice A is incorrect because the gallbladder stores bile, not the small intestine. Choice C is incorrect because the digestion process primarily occurs in the stomach and small intestine. Choice D is incorrect because while the small intestine does play a role in enzyme production, its primary function is nutrient absorption.

5. Which plane would you use to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The transverse plane, also known as the horizontal plane, runs horizontally from left to right, dividing the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. This plane is ideal for separating the abdominal cavity (located below) from the thoracic cavity (located above). The sagittal plane (choice A) divides the body into left and right portions, the frontal plane (choice C) divides the body into front and back portions, and the coronal plane (choice D) is another term for the frontal plane. Therefore, when looking to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity, the transverse plane is the most appropriate choice.

Similar Questions

Which bones do the rotator cuff help to stabilize?
Which hormone stimulates the production of red blood cells?
When are gallstones most problematic?
What is the name of the outermost layer of the skin?
Which organ system is primarily responsible for preventing water loss?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$49/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses