what is the role of the diaphragm in the respiratory system

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Practice Test Science

1. What is the role of the diaphragm in the respiratory system?

A. To regulate blood pressure
B. To contract and expand the lungs
C. To produce red blood cells
D. To absorb oxygen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To contract and expand the lungs. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in the respiratory system by contracting and expanding the lungs. When it contracts, it flattens, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and causing air to be drawn into the lungs. Conversely, when it relaxes, it moves back up, decreasing the thoracic cavity volume and pushing air out of the lungs. This process is essential for breathing and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The diaphragm is not involved in regulating blood pressure, producing red blood cells, or absorbing oxygen. Its primary function is to aid in respiration by facilitating breathing through its contraction and relaxation movements.

2. A person who carries a pathogen but does not exhibit any symptoms is considered:

A. Asymptomatic carrier
B. Opportunistic pathogen
C. Nosocomial infection
D. Vector-borne disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An asymptomatic carrier is a person who carries a pathogen, such as a virus or bacterium, without showing any symptoms of the infection. Despite lacking symptoms, asymptomatic carriers can still transmit the pathogen to others, potentially causing illness in those they contact. This term specifically pertains to infected individuals who do not manifest symptoms, distinguishing them from symptomatic carriers who do exhibit signs of the infection. Option A is the most fitting choice as it accurately characterizes a person carrying a pathogen without displaying symptoms. B) Opportunistic pathogen: This term describes pathogens that typically do not cause disease in healthy individuals but can be pathogenic in those with weakened immune systems. C) Nosocomial infection: This term refers to infections acquired in a hospital or healthcare facility. D) Vector-borne disease: This term relates to diseases transmitted to humans by vectors like mosquitoes or ticks.

3. What impact would the removal of a keystone species have in an ecosystem?

A. Lead to a decrease in competition among other species
B. Cause a slight increase in primary productivity
C. Have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure
D. Disrupt the food web and cause cascading effects on other populations

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and structure of an ecosystem due to their significant influence. If a keystone species is removed, it disrupts the delicate food web dynamics and can trigger cascading effects throughout the ecosystem. The disruption in predator-prey relationships can lead to population declines and even extinctions of other species. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because the removal of a keystone species would not decrease competition among other species, cause a slight increase in primary productivity, or have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure. Instead, it would have a profound impact, disrupting the food web and causing cascading effects on other populations.

4. What is the process of making copies of DNA called?

A. Transcription
B. Translation
C. Replication
D. DNA repair

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Transcription is the process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template. It involves the creation of mRNA molecules from a DNA template. B) Translation is the process of synthesizing proteins from mRNA. During translation, the genetic code carried by mRNA is decoded to produce a specific sequence of amino acids, forming a protein. C) Replication is the process of making copies of DNA. This process occurs before cell division and ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the genetic material. D) DNA repair is a cellular mechanism that corrects errors in DNA that arise due to various factors such as exposure to mutagens or mistakes during DNA replication. It is essential for maintaining the integrity of the genetic material.

5. Where does most of the chemical digestion and absorption of nutrients occur?

A. Mouth
B. Stomach
C. Small intestine
D. Large intestine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for both chemical digestion and absorption of nutrients in the digestive system. The lining of the small intestine is equipped with villi and microvilli, which significantly increase the surface area available for absorption. Enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver play crucial roles in further breaking down food into absorbable molecules that can pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream. While the stomach assists in mechanical breakdown and initial protein digestion, it is not the main site of nutrient absorption. The large intestine, on the other hand, mainly absorbs water and electrolytes from undigested food particles. The mouth aids in initial mechanical breakdown and some carbohydrate digestion, but the majority of nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine, making it the correct answer.