what is the main role of the large intestine in digestion

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Questions

1. What is the main role of the large intestine in digestion?

A. Absorbing proteins
B. Absorbing carbohydrates
C. Absorbing fats
D. Absorbing water

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main role of the large intestine in digestion is to absorb water. When food reaches the large intestine, most nutrients have already been absorbed by the small intestine. In the large intestine, water is absorbed from the remaining undigested food, helping to form solid waste (feces). Absorbing proteins, carbohydrates, or fats primarily occurs in the small intestine, not in the large intestine. Therefore, options A, B, and C are incorrect.

2. What is the difference between emphysema and chronic bronchitis, both chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD)?

A. Emphysema damages alveoli, while chronic bronchitis inflames airways.
B. Emphysema causes coughing, while chronic bronchitis leads to shortness of breath.
C. Emphysema is more reversible than chronic bronchitis.
D. Emphysema affects only smokers, while chronic bronchitis can occur in non-smokers.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Emphysema is characterized by the destruction of alveoli in the lungs, leading to decreased surface area for gas exchange. Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, involves inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to excessive mucus production and coughing. Therefore, the correct difference between emphysema and chronic bronchitis is that emphysema damages the alveoli, while chronic bronchitis inflames the airways. Choice B is incorrect because chronic bronchitis is associated with coughing, not emphysema. Choice C is incorrect as chronic bronchitis is typically less reversible compared to emphysema. Choice D is incorrect as both emphysema and chronic bronchitis are commonly seen in smokers, but chronic bronchitis can also occur in non-smokers due to other factors such as air pollution or genetic predisposition.

3. A ball is rolling across the floor and comes to a stop on its own. What force caused the ball to stop?

A. Gravitational force
B. Normal force from the floor
C. Air resistance
D. None of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The force that caused the ball to stop rolling across the floor is air resistance. As the ball moves through the air, air resistance acts in the opposite direction of its motion, gradually slowing it down until it comes to a stop. In this scenario, the ball is not in contact with the floor, so the normal force from the floor does not play a role in stopping the ball. Gravitational force acts to pull objects towards the center of the Earth and would not directly stop the ball in this situation. Therefore, air resistance is the force that opposes the motion of the rolling ball and causes it to come to a stop.

4. What is a major structure of the limbic system?

A. Brainstem
B. Spinal cord
C. Hypothalamus
D. Cerebral cortex

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a significant structure of the limbic system responsible for regulating various functions such as emotions, autonomic functions, and hormone production. It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and orchestrating responses to stress and emotional stimuli. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The brainstem, although a vital part of the brain, is not a major structure of the limbic system. The spinal cord is not part of the limbic system; it is primarily involved in transmitting sensory and motor information between the brain and the rest of the body. The cerebral cortex is responsible for higher cognitive functions but is not a major structure within the limbic system.

5. Which gland produces the hormone responsible for the 'fight-or-flight' response in stressful situations?

A. Thyroid gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Pancreas

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Adrenal gland. The hormone responsible for the 'fight-or-flight' response in stressful situations is produced by the adrenal gland. This hormone is called adrenaline (epinephrine) and is released in response to stress, preparing the body to either fight the stressor or flee from it. The other choices are incorrect because the thyroid gland primarily produces hormones that regulate metabolism, the pituitary gland produces various hormones that control other endocrine glands, and the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels.