what is the role of the small intestine in digestion
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HESI A2

Quizlet HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology

1. What is the primary function of the small intestine in digestion?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absorbing nutrients. The small intestine plays a crucial role in digestion by absorbing nutrients. It is where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs, allowing digested food to pass into the bloodstream for distribution to the body's cells. Choice A (Breaking down fats) is incorrect because the breakdown of fats primarily occurs in the small intestine with the help of bile from the liver and enzymes from the pancreas. Choice C (Secreting digestive enzymes) is incorrect because while the small intestine does produce some digestive enzymes, its primary role is absorption. Choice D (Storing bile) is incorrect as the storage of bile occurs in the gallbladder, not the small intestine.

2. Which of the following is not a principal organ of the nervous system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The thymus is not a principal organ of the nervous system; it is part of the immune system. The brain, spinal cord, and ganglia are principal organs of the nervous system. The brain is responsible for processing information, the spinal cord helps transmit signals between the brain and the rest of the body, and ganglia are clusters of nerve cells that support the nervous system's functions. Therefore, the thymus is the correct answer as it is not directly involved in nervous system functions.

3. Which type of tissue connects bones to other bones?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ligaments. Ligaments are tough, flexible connective tissues that connect bones to other bones, providing stability and support to joints. Tendons (choice A) connect muscles to bones, enabling movement. Cartilage (choice C) is a firm, rubbery material that cushions bones at joints. Muscles (choice D) are contractile tissues responsible for movement. Therefore, when looking for the tissue that connects bones to other bones, ligaments are the most appropriate choice.

4. Which structure in the eye focuses light onto the retina?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The lens of the eye is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. It plays a crucial role in adjusting the focus to allow for clear vision. After the light passes through the lens, it reaches the retina where it is converted into neural signals for the brain to interpret. The cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye that helps in focusing light, but its main function is to protect the eye. The pupil is the opening in the center of the iris that regulates the amount of light entering the eye. The iris is the colored part of the eye that controls the size of the pupil.

5. What is the primary function of the nervous system?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the nervous system is to transmit signals and coordinate body activities. It controls and regulates body functions by sending and receiving signals between different parts of the body, enabling responses to internal and external stimuli. This intricate network allows for communication between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body, ultimately facilitating movement, sensation, thoughts, and various bodily functions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the primary function of the nervous system. Fighting infections is primarily the role of the immune system, producing hormones is the function of the endocrine system, and regulating body temperature involves mechanisms of thermoregulation within the body, not directly controlled by the nervous system.

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