what is the role of the small intestine in the digestive system
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test 2023

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To absorb nutrients. The small intestine's main role in the digestive system is to absorb nutrients from digested food. It has specialized structures, such as villi and microvilli, that increase its surface area for efficient absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. Choice A is incorrect because the small intestine does not primarily secrete digestive enzymes; that role is mainly carried out by the pancreas and other digestive organs. Choice C is incorrect because the small intestine primarily absorbs nutrients rather than breaking down food. Choice D is incorrect because the absorption of water primarily occurs in the large intestine, not the small intestine.

2. Which might be a result of stenosis, or narrowing of a heart valve?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Stenosis, or narrowing of a heart valve, restricts blood flow through the valve, leading to changes in the heart's normal rhythm. This alteration can result in an irregular heartbeat, making it a common consequence of heart valve stenosis. Abdominal pain, blood clots, and organ swelling are not typically associated with stenosis of a heart valve.

3. Which part of the brain is responsible for memory and learning?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Temporal lobe. The temporal lobe of the brain plays a crucial role in processing auditory information, memory formation, and learning. It contains the hippocampus, a structure vital for the formation of new memories and the conversion of short-term memories into long-term ones. Damage to the temporal lobe can lead to memory impairments and difficulties in learning new information. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the frontal lobe is primarily involved in decision making, problem-solving, and emotional control; the parietal lobe is responsible for sensory processing and spatial orientation; and the occipital lobe is mainly dedicated to visual processing and interpretation.

4. The motor cortex helps the brain by monitoring and controlling the body's movement. Where is the motor cortex located within the brain?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Front portion of the parietal lobe. The motor cortex is located in the frontal lobe, specifically in the front portion of the parietal lobe. It is responsible for planning, controlling, and executing voluntary movements. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the motor cortex is not located at the back of the head, top middle portion of the parietal lobe, or around the auditory cortex.

5. What is the role of the large intestine in the digestive system?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absorbing water and forming solid waste. The large intestine plays a crucial role in absorbing water from the remaining indigestible food matter and forming solid waste (feces) to be excreted from the body. This process helps in maintaining the body's fluid balance and eliminating waste efficiently. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the large intestine is not primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients, breaking down fats, or secreting digestive enzymes. These functions are mainly carried out in the small intestine.

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