what is the function of the hypothalamus
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test

1. What is the primary function of the hypothalamus?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the hypothalamus is to regulate body balance and thermoregulation. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall body equilibrium by controlling functions such as body temperature and water balance. While the hypothalamus is also involved in hunger and thirst regulation, its main role is to ensure homeostasis by monitoring and adjusting body balance and temperature. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hunger and thirst regulation, sleep and circadian rhythm regulation, and control of voluntary movements are secondary functions of the hypothalamus compared to its primary role in maintaining body balance and thermoregulation.

2. What is a primary function of the skeletal system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Support and protection. The primary functions of the skeletal system include providing structural support to the body and protecting internal organs. While the skeletal system also plays a role in hematopoiesis (production of blood cells) and stores minerals, its main function is to support the body's framework and protect vital organs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the primary functions of the skeletal system.

3. Which organelle is responsible for generating energy within a cell?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Mitochondria are commonly referred to as the powerhouses of the cell as they are primarily responsible for generating energy through cellular respiration. This process involves converting nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the main energy currency of the cell. The nucleus is responsible for storing the cell's genetic material, the ribosome is involved in protein synthesis, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for packaging and distributing molecules produced by the cell; therefore, they are not directly involved in energy generation.

4. What is the main function of the digestive system?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main function of the digestive system is to break down food into nutrients through the process of digestion. Once the food is broken down, the nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream and utilized by the body for various functions. Choice B, regulating body temperature, is incorrect as it is the function of the body's thermoregulatory system, not the digestive system. Choice C, transporting nutrients, is incorrect as the digestive system primarily focuses on breaking down and absorbing nutrients rather than transporting them. Choice D, producing hormones, is also incorrect as hormone production is mainly carried out by endocrine glands and not the digestive system.

5. What is the primary function of the small intestine in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absorbing nutrients. The small intestine plays a crucial role in digestion by absorbing nutrients. It is where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs, allowing digested food to pass into the bloodstream for distribution to the body's cells. Choice A (Breaking down fats) is incorrect because the breakdown of fats primarily occurs in the small intestine with the help of bile from the liver and enzymes from the pancreas. Choice C (Secreting digestive enzymes) is incorrect because while the small intestine does produce some digestive enzymes, its primary role is absorption. Choice D (Storing bile) is incorrect as the storage of bile occurs in the gallbladder, not the small intestine.

Similar Questions

How do the muscular and skeletal systems collaborate to facilitate movement?
What are the chemical messengers that control growth, differentiation, and metabolism of specific target cells called?
What is the main function of the circulatory system?
Which hormone is produced by the adrenal medulla?
What is the primary function of hemoglobin in red blood cells?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses