What is the primary function of the atrioventricular (AV) node within the heart?
- A. Generate the electrical impulse for contraction (pacemaker function)
- B. Transmit the electrical impulse from the atria to the ventricles, regulating the timing of contraction.
- C. Increase blood pressure within the ventricles during systole.
- D. Separate oxygenated and deoxygenated blood flow in the heart.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Transmit the electrical impulse from the atria to the ventricles, regulating the timing of contraction. The primary function of the atrioventricular (AV) node is to coordinate the transmission of electrical signals between the atria and the ventricles. It ensures proper timing between atrial and ventricular contractions, allowing for efficient blood pumping through the heart. Choice A is incorrect because the AV node does not generate the initial electrical impulse; that role is typically attributed to the sinoatrial (SA) node. Choice C is incorrect as the AV node does not directly influence blood pressure within the ventricles. Choice D is also incorrect as the separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood is primarily achieved by the anatomical structure of the heart (e.g., atria and ventricles) and not the AV node.
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What is the protective sac surrounding the testes in the male reproductive system?
- A. Vas deferens
- B. Scrotum
- C. Epididymis
- D. Urethra
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The scrotum is the correct answer, as it is the protective sac surrounding the testes in the male reproductive system. The scrotum's role is crucial in maintaining the optimal temperature for proper sperm production by regulating the distance of the testes from the body. The vas deferens is a duct responsible for transporting sperm from the testes to the urethra, not the protective sac surrounding the testes. The epididymis is a coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored before ejaculation, not the protective sac. The urethra is a tube that serves as a common passageway for both urine and semen to exit the body, not the protective sac surrounding the testes.
What is the main component of stomach acid?
- A. Hydrochloric acid
- B. Bicarbonate
- C. Bile salts
- D. Enzymes
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Stomach acid, also known as gastric acid, is primarily composed of hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid plays a crucial role in the digestive process by helping to break down food and kill bacteria in the stomach. Bicarbonate is a base that helps neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine, but it is not the main component of stomach acid. Bile salts are produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, aiding in the digestion and absorption of fats, but they are not the main component of stomach acid. Enzymes are proteins that help catalyze chemical reactions in the body, including the breakdown of food molecules during digestion, but they are not the main component of stomach acid.
Which structure in the respiratory system is responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the bloodstream?
- A. Trachea
- B. Bronchi
- C. Alveoli
- D. Bronchioles
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs. Oxygen from the air diffuses into the bloodstream through the alveoli, while carbon dioxide from the bloodstream diffuses into the alveoli to be exhaled. The trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles are essential parts of the airway system responsible for transporting air to and from the lungs but do not directly participate in the gas exchange process. Therefore, option C, the alveoli, is the correct answer for the structure responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the bloodstream.
The lymphatic system works closely with which other body system to fight infections?
- A. Respiratory system
- B. Digestive system
- C. Immune system
- D. Nervous system
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The lymphatic system and the immune system work closely together to fight infections. The lymphatic system aids the immune system by circulating white blood cells, a crucial component in combating pathogens, throughout the body. This collaboration helps identify and eliminate harmful invaders to maintain the body's health and well-being. Choice A (Respiratory system) is incorrect because while it plays a role in oxygen exchange and removing carbon dioxide, it is not primarily responsible for fighting infections. Choice B (Digestive system) is incorrect as its main functions involve breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, not directly fighting infections. Choice D (Nervous system) is incorrect because its primary role is in transmitting signals throughout the body and controlling bodily functions, not in fighting infections.
What information can be obtained from the mass number of an element?
- A. The number of protons in the nucleus
- B. The total number of protons and neutrons
- C. The number of electrons in the valence shell
- D. The element's chemical reactivity
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The mass number of an element represents the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. This information is crucial for determining the atomic mass of the element and understanding its stability and isotopes. The number of protons in the nucleus (option A) is represented by the atomic number, not the mass number. The number of electrons in the valence shell (option C) is related to the element's position in the periodic table and its chemical properties, but it is not directly determined by the mass number. The element's chemical reactivity (option D) is influenced by the number and arrangement of electrons in the atom's energy levels, not by the mass number.