what is the primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system
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ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

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

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. Which term describes the resistance of a substance to flow?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Viscosity is the term used to describe the resistance of a substance to flow. It quantifies how thick or thin a fluid is and how easily it flows. Density (A) refers to the mass of a substance per unit volume and does not directly relate to resistance to flow. Conductivity (C) is the property of a material to conduct electricity or heat, not related to resistance to flow. Malleability (D) is the property of a material to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets, which is not related to resistance to flow.

3. What is the role of RNA in protein synthesis?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis by decoding the genetic information stored in DNA and carrying it to the ribosomes where proteins are synthesized. This process involves transcription, where RNA is synthesized from DNA, and translation, where the information in RNA is used to assemble amino acids into proteins. RNA acts as a messenger between DNA and the ribosomes, ensuring that the correct sequence of amino acids is used to build proteins according to the genetic code. Option A is incorrect because DNA, not RNA, stores genetic information. Option C is incorrect because RNA does not provide energy for protein synthesis; energy is usually provided by ATP molecules. Option D is incorrect because tRNA (transfer RNA) is responsible for transporting amino acids to the ribosomes, not RNA in general. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it accurately describes the role of RNA in protein synthesis.

4. Enzymes are ________ molecules that serve as _______ for certain biological reactions.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Enzymes are protein molecules that serve as catalysts for certain biological reactions. Enzymes are biological molecules that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms by lowering the activation energy required for the reactions to occur. They are typically proteins that have specific shapes and active sites that allow them to interact with specific substrates and facilitate reactions without being consumed themselves. The other choices are incorrect because enzymes are not irrelevant, acidic, or lipid molecules; they are primarily proteins known for their catalytic properties.

5. Which of the following structures is responsible for preventing the backflow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, the Mitral valve. The mitral valve, also known as the bicuspid valve, is situated between the left atrium and the left ventricle. Its primary function is to prevent the backflow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium during ventricular contraction. The other choices are incorrect because: A) The aortic valve prevents backflow from the aorta into the left ventricle. B) The pulmonary valve prevents backflow from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricle. C) The tricuspid valve prevents backflow from the right ventricle into the right atrium.

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