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Blood Pressure Regulators
The body is composed of systems that have evolved and diversified in order to maintain the natural functions and processes they regulate. One such system that has these regulators is the body’s cardiovascular system. The body’s pump, which regulates the flow of vitally needed oxygen to all cells of the body, as well as the discard of carbon dioxide and other waste products, is the heart.
Because blood pressure varies at different points within the body, differing components are needed to keep the body’s blood pressure regulated. Three of the basic components are baroreceptors, chemoreceptors, and the kidneys.
Baroreceptors are stretch receptors composed of fine branching nerve endings and are contained along the walls of the arteries near the heart and in other areas of the body as well. Impulses are related to this stretching along the arterial walls, which causes these baroreceptors to send out even more impulses to the heart, arteries, and veins, causing the blood pressure to go either up or down.
Chemoreceptors are located along the walls of the arteries and monitor changes in oxygen level, carbon dioxide, and pH. Just think! A fall in oxygen causes receptors to send impulses to raise the blood pressure.
The kidneys play a role in regulating blood pressure by absorbing salts and water and removing wastes. Hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex cause the kidney to keep or let go of any salt and water. This has an influence on blood volume and consequently on blood pressure.

What is the best summary of this passage?

  • A. The body’s pump, the heart, regulates the flow of oxygen to all cells of the body and discards waste products like carbon dioxide. The kidneys assist by absorbing salts and water.
  • B. There are several systems that maintain the body's natural functions. The cardiovascular system regulates blood pressure through baroreceptors, chemoreceptors, and the kidneys.
  • C. Baroreceptors, located along the walls of arteries, help regulate blood pressure by sending impulses to the heart, arteries, and veins.
  • D. Chemoreceptors monitor changes in oxygen levels that impact blood pressure.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it provides a concise and accurate summary of the passage. It highlights the different components involved in regulating blood pressure, including baroreceptors, chemoreceptors, and the kidneys within the cardiovascular system. This choice effectively captures the main points discussed in the passage, emphasizing the systems responsible for maintaining the body's natural functions and regulating blood pressure.