what is the primary role of the kidneys in the urinary system
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

1. What is the primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system is to filter blood to remove waste products and excess fluids, which are then excreted as urine. Kidneys act as a filtration system, removing waste like urea, excess salts, and toxins. While the kidneys do play a role in regulating blood pressure by secreting renin and maintaining electrolyte balance by adjusting the levels of sodium, potassium, and other ions in the blood, their main and essential function is filtration and waste removal, making choice B the correct answer.

2. Which gland produces hormones that regulate sleep?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pineal gland secretes melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin production is influenced by exposure to light, with levels increasing in the evening to promote sleep and decreasing in the morning to signal wakefulness. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the thyroid gland primarily regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland produces hormones like adrenaline and cortisol related to stress response, and the pituitary gland controls various functions by releasing different hormones but not specifically related to regulating sleep.

3. A tissue examined under the microscope exhibits the following characteristics: cells found on the internal surface of the stomach, no extracellular matrix, cells tall and thin, and no blood vessels in the tissue. What type of tissue is this?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Epithelial.' Epithelial tissue is characterized by cells that cover internal and external surfaces, such as the lining of the stomach. It lacks an extracellular matrix, has tall and thin cells, and does not contain blood vessels. The other choices are incorrect because connective tissue typically has an extracellular matrix, muscle tissue is composed of contractile cells, and cartilage is a type of connective tissue with a specific extracellular matrix and cell arrangement.

4. What is the name of the structure that prevents food from entering the airway?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The epiglottis is the structure that prevents food from entering the airway. It acts as a lid over the trachea during swallowing, directing food to the esophagus instead of the windpipe (trachea). The trachea (Choice A) is the windpipe that allows air to pass into the lungs, the esophagus (Choice B) is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, and the diaphragm (Choice C) is a muscle involved in breathing and not in preventing food passage.

5. Which of the following is the largest organ in the human body?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The skin is the largest organ in the human body. It serves as a protective barrier against the environment, regulates temperature, and provides sensory information. The liver, brain, and heart are vital organs, but they are not as extensive as the skin. The liver is primarily responsible for detoxification and metabolism. The brain is the control center of the body, coordinating various functions. The heart is a crucial organ that pumps blood throughout the body. However, in terms of size, the skin surpasses all of these organs.

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