what is the primary function of hemoglobin in the blood
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HESI A2

Quizlet HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology

1. What is the primary function of hemoglobin in the blood?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Transporting oxygen. Hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen in the blood. It binds to oxygen in the lungs forming oxyhemoglobin and carries it to tissues and organs throughout the body. Once at the destination, hemoglobin releases the oxygen for cellular respiration, providing energy for various physiological processes. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as hemoglobin's primary function is not carrying nutrients, clotting blood, or removing carbon dioxide. These functions are carried out by other components in the blood such as plasma proteins, platelets, and red blood cells, respectively.

2. 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.

3. What is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the alveoli in the lungs is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for this gas exchange during breathing. Oxygen diffuses from the inhaled air into the blood in the capillaries surrounding the alveoli, while carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled out of the body. Choice A is incorrect because the alveoli primarily facilitate the exchange of gases, not just the removal of carbon dioxide. Choice C is incorrect as the alveoli do not transport oxygen to the bloodstream but rather facilitate the exchange of gases. Choice D is incorrect as the alveoli are not involved in filtering blood but in gas exchange to ensure proper oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide in the respiratory process.

4. Which of the following epithelial types is correctly matched with its major function?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Simple columnar epithelium is indeed primarily responsible for secretion and absorption due to its tall shape and presence of microvilli, which increase surface area for these functions. Simple squamous epithelium is mainly involved in diffusion, allowing for the exchange of gases or nutrients. Stratified squamous epithelium functions more for protection against mechanical stress and pathogens, as it forms a tough, protective barrier due to its many layers.

5. What is the function of white blood cells?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: White blood cells are a vital part of the immune system. Their primary function is to fight infections by attacking bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that enter the body. They play a crucial role in protecting the body against illnesses and maintaining overall health. Choice A is incorrect because the role of carrying oxygen to cells is primarily performed by red blood cells. Choice C is incorrect as the transportation of nutrients is mainly carried out by the bloodstream and specialized cells. Choice D is incorrect as the process of clotting blood is primarily mediated by platelets.

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