what is the largest muscle in the human body

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. Which muscle is the largest in the human body?

A. Gluteus maximus (buttocks)
B. Quadriceps femoris (thighs)
C. Erector spinae (back)
D. Pectoralis major (chest)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, the gluteus maximus (buttocks). The gluteus maximus is indeed the largest muscle in the human body, located at the back of the hip and stretching from the sacrum to the femur. This muscle is crucial for hip joint extension, playing a significant role in various activities such as walking, running, and climbing stairs. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. While the quadriceps femoris, erector spinae, and pectoralis major are also important muscles, they are not the largest muscle in the human body.

2. What is the SI unit of measurement for work?

A. Newton-meter (N·m)
B. Joule (J)
C. Watt (W)
D. Meter per second (m/s)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Joule (J). Work is defined as the amount of energy transferred by a force acting through a distance. The Joule is the unit used to measure this energy transfer. Choice A, Newton-meter (N·m), is the unit for torque, not work. Choice C, Watt (W), is the unit of power, not work. Choice D, Meter per second (m/s), is a unit for speed or velocity and is not related to work.

3. What type of cells compose the epidermis?

A. Osteoclasts
B. Connective
C. Dendritic
D. Epithelial

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Epithelial. The epidermis is composed of epithelial cells, specifically called keratinocytes, which are responsible for producing keratin, a protein that provides the skin with strength and flexibility. Epithelial cells form the protective outer layer of the skin and play a crucial role in skin repair and regeneration. Choice A - Osteoclasts are cells involved in bone remodeling, not found in the epidermis. Choice B - Connective tissue cells are not the primary cells found in the epidermis. They are more commonly found in the dermis, providing structural support and elasticity to the skin. Choice C - Dendritic cells are part of the immune system and are present in the skin to help recognize pathogens and activate the immune response. However, they are not the main cell type that composes the epidermis.

4. What is the term for the chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons?

A. Reduction
B. Oxidation
C. Neutralization
D. Precipitation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Oxidation is the process where a substance loses electrons. In an oxidation reaction, the substance being oxidized loses electrons, which are gained by another substance. Reduction is the opposite process, where a substance gains electrons. Neutralization is a reaction between an acid and a base to form a salt and water. Precipitation is the formation of a solid from a solution. Therefore, in the context of a chemical reaction involving the loss of electrons, the correct term is oxidation (Choice B).

5. What is the significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics?

A. Predicting the exact outcome of genetic crosses in humans.
B. Tracing the inheritance of complex traits with multiple contributing genes.
C. Identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders.
D. Determining the risk of acquiring a specific mutation de novo.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pedigrees are diagrams that show the relationships within a family and can be used to track the inheritance patterns of specific traits or diseases. While pedigrees can provide information on the inheritance of single gene disorders (such as identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders, as mentioned in option C), their primary significance lies in studying complex traits with multiple contributing genes. These traits do not follow simple Mendelian inheritance patterns and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. By analyzing pedigrees, researchers can identify patterns of inheritance for complex traits, such as polygenic diseases or traits influenced by gene-environment interactions. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it captures the main significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics.