the stratum corneum the outermost layer of the epidermis is primarily composed of

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the primary composition of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis?

A. Keratinized dead cells
B. Melanocytes
C. Langerhans cells
D. Merkel cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, is primarily composed of keratinized dead cells. These cells are flattened, fully keratinized, and lack nuclei, serving a protective function for the skin. Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, providing skin pigmentation. Langerhans cells are involved in the immune response within the skin. Merkel cells are associated with sensory functions in the skin, particularly in touch sensations. Therefore, the correct answer is A as it accurately reflects the main constituent of the stratum corneum, which acts as a barrier against external factors.

2. How can a concave mirror be used?

A. Focus light to a single point
B. Create only virtual images
C. Always magnify objects
D. Scatter light

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A concave mirror can be used to focus light to a single point. This property is known as converging light rays to a focal point. When light rays parallel to the principal axis strike a concave mirror, they converge at a specific point called the focal point. This ability to focus light makes concave mirrors useful in applications such as reflecting telescopes and shaving mirrors. Choice B is incorrect because concave mirrors can create both real and virtual images, depending on the object's position relative to the mirror. Choice C is incorrect as concave mirrors can magnify, reduce, or maintain the size of objects, depending on the object's position and the distance from the mirror. Choice D is incorrect as concave mirrors do not scatter light but instead have the ability to reflect and focus light to produce clear images.

3. Which of the following factors would increase the solubility of a gas in a liquid?

A. Decreasing temperature
B. Increasing pressure
C. Decreasing surface area
D. Increasing particle size

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is increasing pressure. According to Henry's Law, the solubility of a gas in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of the gas above the liquid. Therefore, increasing pressure would force more gas molecules into the liquid, leading to an increase in solubility. Conversely, decreasing temperature, decreasing surface area, and increasing particle size would not directly impact the solubility of a gas in a liquid. Decreasing temperature typically decreases solubility as gases are less soluble at lower temperatures. Decreasing surface area and increasing particle size are related to surface area and not the pressure above the liquid, thus not affecting solubility as pressure does.

4. What is the difference between a sensory neuron and a motor neuron?

A. Sensory neurons carry signals from sensory receptors towards the central nervous system, while motor neurons carry signals away from the central nervous system to muscles and glands.
B. Sensory neurons control voluntary muscles, while motor neurons control involuntary muscles.
C. Sensory neurons are located in the peripheral nervous system, while motor neurons are located in the central nervous system.
D. Sensory neurons detect light, while motor neurons detect sound.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sensory neurons are responsible for carrying signals from sensory receptors towards the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), allowing the brain to receive information about the external environment. On the other hand, motor neurons carry signals away from the central nervous system to muscles and glands, enabling the brain to control voluntary and involuntary movements. Choice B is incorrect because sensory neurons do not control muscles, and motor neurons control both voluntary and involuntary muscles. Choice C is incorrect as sensory neurons are located in the peripheral nervous system, while motor neurons are located in the central nervous system. Choice D is incorrect because sensory neurons detect various stimuli such as touch, taste, smell, and sound, while motor neurons are not involved in detecting sensory stimuli.

5. Which part of the brain controls the coordination of muscle movements?

A. Cerebrum
B. Cerebellum
C. Thalamus
D. Medulla oblongata

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The cerebellum is the part of the brain responsible for controlling the coordination of muscle movements and helping to maintain balance. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to regulate voluntary movements. The cerebrum (choice A) is primarily responsible for higher brain functions such as thinking and decision-making, not muscle coordination. The thalamus (choice C) acts as a relay station for sensory information but is not directly involved in muscle coordination. The medulla oblongata (choice D) is responsible for regulating vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate, rather than muscle coordination.