Reading Comprehension Related

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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 primary purpose of the writer in this essay?

  • A. To inform the reader about the dangers of high blood pressure
  • B. To inform the reader how high blood pressure leads to a higher risk of heart attack
  • C. To inform the reader how the cardiovascular system regulates blood pressure
  • D. To persuade the reader that controlling one's blood pressure is important
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of the writer in this essay is to inform the reader about how the cardiovascular system regulates blood pressure. The essay discusses the components involved in regulating blood pressure, such as baroreceptors, chemoreceptors, and the kidneys. It explains how these components work together to maintain blood pressure levels in the body. The essay does not focus on the dangers of high blood pressure, the relationship between high blood pressure and heart attacks, or persuading the reader to control their blood pressure. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.