sweat glands help regulate body temperature by

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 science review

1. How do sweat glands help regulate body temperature?

A. Producing sebum for lubrication
B. Constricting blood vessels in the skin
C. Releasing a watery fluid that evaporates for cooling
D. Thickening the epidermis for insulation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sweat glands play a vital role in regulating body temperature by releasing a watery fluid that evaporates from the skin's surface. This evaporation process helps cool the body down by dissipating heat, which is essential for maintaining a stable internal temperature. Choice A is incorrect because sweat glands do not produce sebum but rather a watery fluid. Choice B is incorrect because sweating itself does not involve the constriction of blood vessels; instead, it promotes heat loss through evaporation. Choice D is incorrect as sweat glands do not thicken the epidermis for insulation but rather facilitate the cooling process through sweat evaporation.

2. What is a primary function of red blood cells?

A. To fight infection
B. To carry oxygen
C. To produce antibodies
D. To transport waste

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of red blood cells is to carry oxygen from the lungs to all the body's tissues and organs, where it is needed for cellular functions and metabolism. This process is essential for sustaining life and providing energy to cells. Choice A is incorrect because fighting infection is primarily done by white blood cells. Choice C is incorrect because antibody production is mainly carried out by specialized white blood cells. Choice D is incorrect as the primary role of red blood cells is not to transport waste, but rather to transport oxygen and some carbon dioxide.

3. The average life expectancy at birth in the United States at the beginning of the 21st century was about 75 years. The average life expectancy at birth in the middle of the 19th century was only about 40 years. Which of the following factors are likely to have contributed to the longer life expectancy in the 21st century? (Select the one that does not apply)

A. The human body has evolved to become more resilient to its environment.
B. There have been numerous advances in medical technology and treatments.
C. Higher standards of basic cleanliness have helped people avoid illness.
D. The creation of vaccines has nearly eliminated certain diseases that were once deadly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Medical advances, higher standards of cleanliness, and the creation of vaccines have all significantly contributed to the increase in life expectancy over time. While human evolution plays a role in adaptation to the environment over millennia, it is not a primary factor that has led to the substantial increase in life expectancy within a few centuries. The human body's evolution is a slow process that occurs over generations, while the advancements in medical technology, cleanliness, and vaccines have had a more immediate and direct impact on improving life expectancy.

4. Which of the following describes the flow of genetic information from DNA to protein?

A. Replication
B. Transcription
C. Translation
D. Both transcription and translation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Both transcription and translation.' Genetic information flows from DNA to RNA through transcription and from RNA to protein through translation. Replication is the process of copying DNA to produce an identical DNA molecule. Choice A, 'Replication,' is incorrect because replication is not directly involved in the flow of genetic information from DNA to protein. Choice B, 'Transcription,' is incorrect as it represents the process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template, which is the initial step in the flow of genetic information. Choice C, 'Translation,' is also incorrect as it refers to the process of translating the information in mRNA into a sequence of amino acids during protein synthesis, which is the second step in the flow of genetic information.

5. Which of the following is NOT a function of the cilia lining the respiratory tract?

A. Trapping inhaled dust and debris
B. Moistening inhaled air
C. Producing mucus
D. Propelling mucus upwards towards the throat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Moistening inhaled air. The cilia lining the respiratory tract primarily function to trap inhaled dust and debris, produce mucus, and propel the mucus upwards towards the throat for removal. Moistening inhaled air is primarily done by the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, which contain blood vessels that help warm and humidify the air as it passes through the nasal cavity. Therefore, the function of moistening inhaled air is not directly associated with the cilia in the respiratory tract, making it the correct choice in this scenario. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are all functions carried out by the cilia in the respiratory tract.