Which structure in the digestive system absorbs the most nutrients?
- A. Stomach
- B. Small intestine
- C. Large intestine
- D. Esophagus
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site where the absorption of nutrients from digested food occurs. Its large surface area, specialized cells, and villi play key roles in maximizing nutrient absorption, making it the structure in the digestive system that absorbs the most nutrients. The stomach's main function is to break down food with acid and enzymes, not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat with the stomach and does not play a role in nutrient absorption.
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What is the most powerful stimulus for breathing in a healthy person?
- A. Acidosis
- B. Alkalosis
- C. Increase in CO2
- D. Loss of O2
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is an increase in CO2. In a healthy individual, the primary drive to breathe is regulated by the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. When CO2 levels increase, it triggers the body to increase the rate and depth of breathing to eliminate excess CO2 and restore the balance. This response is more powerful than other stimuli such as acidosis, alkalosis, or loss of oxygen. While acidosis and alkalosis can affect breathing, an increase in CO2 has a more direct and immediate impact. Loss of oxygen (hypoxia) is a potent stimulus, but the body's response to increased CO2 levels is generally more pronounced and immediate in healthy individuals.
What is the purpose of sodium bicarbonate when released into the lumen of the small intestine?
- A. It works to chemically digest fats in the chyme.
- B. It decreases the pH of the chyme to prevent harm to the intestine.
- C. It works to chemically digest proteins in the chyme.
- D. It increases the pH of the chyme to prevent harm to the intestine.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Sodium bicarbonate, when released into the lumen of the small intestine, functions to increase the pH of the acidic chyme coming from the stomach. This increase in pH helps neutralize the acidity of the chyme, creating a more optimal environment for the digestive enzymes in the small intestine to function properly. Maintaining a slightly basic pH in the small intestine is crucial for overall digestion and absorption of nutrients. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Sodium bicarbonate does not chemically digest fats or proteins in the chyme, and it does not decrease the pH of the chyme as it actually increases the pH to prevent harm to the intestine.
Which of the following terms refers to the ability to detect and respond to changes in the internal and external environment?
- A. Growth
- B. Responsiveness
- C. Reproduction
- D. Development
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Responsiveness is the correct term that refers to the ability to detect and respond to changes in the internal and external environment. In this context, growth is incorrect as it pertains to an increase in size or number, reproduction involves producing offspring, and development refers to the process of growth, maturation, and differentiation of cells and tissues. Therefore, 'Responsiveness' is the most appropriate term for the given description.
Which type of tissue provides support and structure to the body?
- A. Muscle tissue
- B. Connective tissue
- C. Nervous tissue
- D. Epithelial tissue
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Connective tissue is the correct answer as it provides support, structure, and strength to the body by holding tissues and organs in place. Muscle tissue is primarily responsible for movement, nervous tissue for communication, and epithelial tissue for covering and lining surfaces. While muscle tissue allows for voluntary and involuntary movement, nervous tissue transmits electrical signals, and epithelial tissue acts as a protective barrier and is involved in absorption and secretion. Therefore, in the context of providing support and structure, connective tissue is the most appropriate choice.
What is the first number in a blood pressure reading?
- A. Diastolic pressure
- B. Mean arterial pressure
- C. Pulse rate
- D. Systolic pressure
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Systolic pressure. In a blood pressure reading, the first number represents the systolic pressure, which is the maximum pressure in the arteries during heart contraction. The second number in the reading is the diastolic pressure, which indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because diastolic pressure, mean arterial pressure, and pulse rate are not the first numbers in a blood pressure reading.