what is the primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. What is the primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system?

A. Filtration of air
B. Production of mucus
C. Prevention of food entering the trachea
D. Oxygen exchange in the alveoli

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system is to prevent food from entering the trachea. During swallowing, the epiglottis covers the opening of the trachea, guiding food down the esophagus to the stomach and preventing it from entering the airway. This mechanism safeguards the respiratory system from foreign objects, ensuring proper air passage and avoiding potential choking hazards. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A) Filtration of air is mainly performed by the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. B) Production of mucus is primarily carried out by the mucous glands in the respiratory system to trap particles and humidify the air. D) Oxygen exchange in the alveoli occurs in the lungs and is related to the process of respiration, not the function of the epiglottis.

2. What is the role of hemoglobin in the human body?

A. Transport oxygen in red blood cells
B. Bind oxygen to red blood cells
C. Carry carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs
D. Help red blood cells transport oxygen

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Help red blood cells transport oxygen.' Hemoglobin acts as a carrier molecule in red blood cells, binding to oxygen in the lungs and releasing it in the tissues. It facilitates the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and aids in returning carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because hemoglobin itself does not transport oxygen independently or bind oxygen to red blood cells nor does it carry carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs; instead, it assists red blood cells in the transportation of oxygen.

3. Find the lowest coefficients that will balance the following combustion equation: C H + O2 → CO2 + H2O

A. 1:5:5:2
B. 4:10:20:8
C. 2:9:10:4
D. 2:5:10:4

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To balance the combustion equation CxHy + O2 → xCO2 + y/2 H2O, we need to balance the carbon and hydrogen atoms. The balanced equation for the given combustion is: 2C H4 + 9O2 → 2CO2 + 4H2O. This means that the correct coefficients are 2:9:10:4, which corresponds to choice C. Choice A (1:5:5:2) does not balance the equation correctly, choice B (4:10:20:8) has excessive oxygen and does not balance the equation, and choice D (2:5:10:4) does not provide the correct ratio of oxygen to balance the equation.

4. What does the term 'solute' refer to in a solution?

A. The substance present in the largest amount
B. The substance that dissolves in the solvent
C. The liquid portion of the solution
D. The temperature at which the solution freezes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a solution, the term 'solute' specifically refers to the substance that dissolves in the solvent to create a solution. The solute is typically present in a smaller amount compared to the solvent. Option B correctly identifies the solute as the substance that undergoes dissolution in the solvent, making it the correct choice. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is actually describing the solvent, which is the substance present in the largest amount in a solution. Choice C refers to the solvent, not the solute. Choice D is unrelated to the term 'solute' as it describes the colligative property of freezing point depression, not the solute itself.

5. Which state of matter has a definite shape and volume but can flow?

A. Solid
B. Liquid
C. Gas
D. Plasma

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A liquid is the state of matter that has a definite volume but can flow and take the shape of its container. Solids have a definite shape and volume but do not flow as liquids do. Gases do not have a definite shape or volume but can flow to fill their container. Plasma is a state of matter where the particles are highly energized and do not have a definite shape or volume, thus not fitting the description of having a definite shape and volume while being able to flow.