what is the function of the stomach in digestion
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HESI A2

Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test

1. What is the function of the stomach in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To break down food.' The stomach's primary function in digestion is to break down food mechanically and chemically. It accomplishes this by mixing food with gastric acid and digestive enzymes, resulting in the formation of chyme, a semi-liquid mixture that moves on to further digestion in the small intestine. Choice A is incorrect because the absorption of nutrients occurs mainly in the small intestine, not in the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because while the stomach does secrete digestive enzymes like pepsin, its primary role is not just limited to enzyme secretion. Choice D is incorrect because the storage of glucose primarily occurs in the liver and muscles, not in the stomach.

2. Which plane would you use to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The transverse plane, also known as the horizontal plane, runs horizontally from left to right, dividing the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. This plane is ideal for separating the abdominal cavity (located below) from the thoracic cavity (located above). The sagittal plane (choice A) divides the body into left and right portions, the frontal plane (choice C) divides the body into front and back portions, and the coronal plane (choice D) is another term for the frontal plane. Therefore, when looking to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity, the transverse plane is the most appropriate choice.

3. What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of gases. It transports oxygen from the air into the bloodstream, which is crucial for cellular respiration and providing energy to the cells. Additionally, it removes carbon dioxide, which is a waste product that needs to be eliminated. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while the respiratory system does remove carbon dioxide, its primary role is oxygen transport, not nutrient delivery, sound, or speech production.

4. Which of the following is not part of the axial skeletal system?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, the radius. The axial skeleton comprises bones located along the central axis of the body. It includes the skull, ribs, breastbone (sternum), vertebrae, and sacrum. The radius, on the other hand, is a bone of the forearm, part of the appendicular skeleton. The appendicular skeleton consists of the bones of the limbs and their girdles, not the central axial bones.

5. Which hormone is released by the posterior pituitary gland?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Oxytocin is the correct answer. It is released by the posterior pituitary gland and plays a vital role in childbirth and lactation. Oxytocin promotes uterine contractions during labor and milk ejection during breastfeeding. Choice B, Thyroxine, is incorrect as it is produced by the thyroid gland. Choice C, Insulin, is incorrect as it is produced by the pancreas. Choice D, ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone), is also released by the posterior pituitary gland, but it is not the hormone primarily associated with childbirth and lactation.

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