how does the developing fetus primarily eliminate metabolic wastes

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Practice Science Test

1. How does the developing fetus primarily eliminate metabolic wastes?

A. The developing fetus does not produce metabolic wastes.
B. Fetal waste is excreted as feces, which pass into the mother's anus.
C. Fetal waste is passed down the umbilical cord to the mother's circulatory system.
D. Fetal waste is passed down the umbilical cord and leaves the mother's body via the vagina.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Metabolic wastes produced by the developing fetus are eliminated primarily by being passed down the umbilical cord to the mother's circulatory system. Once in the mother's blood, these wastes are then filtered and excreted by the mother's kidneys. Choice A is incorrect because the developing fetus does produce metabolic wastes. Choice B is incorrect as fetal waste does not pass into the mother's anus. Choice D is incorrect as fetal waste does not leave the mother's body via the vagina.

2. What is the primary function of platelets in the blood?

A. To carry oxygen
B. To clot blood
C. To fight infection
D. To transport nutrients

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To clot blood.' Platelets play a crucial role in the clotting process, forming a plug at the site of blood vessel injury to prevent excessive bleeding. While red blood cells carry oxygen, white blood cells fight infection, and nutrients are transported by plasma, platelets are specifically responsible for blood clotting. Choice A is incorrect because red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen. Choice C is incorrect because white blood cells are primarily involved in fighting infection. Choice D is incorrect as the transport of nutrients is mainly carried out by plasma, not platelets.

3. Which structure controls the hormones secreted by the pituitary gland?

A. Hypothalamus
B. Adrenal gland
C. Testes
D. Pancreas

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus controls the release of hormones from the pituitary gland. It acts as a master regulator of the endocrine system by producing releasing and inhibiting hormones that influence the secretion of hormones from the pituitary gland. Choice B, the Adrenal gland, is incorrect because while it plays a role in hormone production, it is not responsible for controlling the pituitary gland's hormones. Choice C, the Testes, and Choice D, the Pancreas, are also incorrect as they are not directly involved in controlling the hormones secreted by the pituitary gland.

4. Which of the following best describes a function carried out by the circulatory system and the integumentary system working together?

A. Removal of excess heat from the body
B. Hormonal regulation of blood pressure
C. Transport of oxygen in the body
D. Production of red blood cells in the bone marrow

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Removal of excess heat from the body. The circulatory system, which includes blood vessels and the heart, works with the integumentary system, which consists of the skin, to regulate body temperature by removing excess heat. This process involves blood vessels near the skin's surface dilating to release heat and constricting to conserve heat, a mechanism crucial for maintaining homeostasis. Option B, Hormonal regulation of blood pressure, is incorrect as it does not accurately describe the collaborative function of these systems in regulating body temperature. Option C, Transport of oxygen in the body, is incorrect as it focuses on a different function of the circulatory system. Option D, Production of red blood cells in the bone marrow, is incorrect as it pertains to the skeletal and hematopoietic systems, not the circulatory and integumentary systems working together to regulate body temperature.

5. What are Merkel cells, located in the epidermis, specialized for?

A. Melanin production
B. Temperature sensation
C. Touch perception
D. Immune defense

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Merkel cells are specialized touch receptors located in the epidermis of the skin. Their primary function is to perceive light touch and pressure. They play a crucial role in the sensory perception of touch stimuli. Option A, melanin production, is incorrect because Merkel cells are not involved in producing melanin. Option B, temperature sensation, is incorrect as Merkel cells are not specialized for sensing temperature. Option D, immune defense, is also incorrect as Merkel cells do not have a role in immune defense mechanisms.