which component of the nervous system is responsible for controlling voluntary movements such as the contraction of skeletal muscles

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 practice test science

1. Which component of the nervous system is responsible for controlling voluntary movements, such as the contraction of skeletal muscles?

A. Autonomic nervous system
B. Peripheral nervous system
C. Somatic nervous system
D. Sympathetic nervous system

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Somatic nervous system. The somatic nervous system is responsible for controlling voluntary movements, such as the contraction of skeletal muscles. This system consists of motor neurons that send signals from the central nervous system to the skeletal muscles, allowing for conscious control over movement. The autonomic nervous system (A) controls involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion, the peripheral nervous system (B) includes all nerves outside the central nervous system, and the sympathetic nervous system (D) is a division of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the fight-or-flight response. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically regulate voluntary movements of skeletal muscles, which is a function of the somatic nervous system.

2. What is the primary function of nephrons?

A. Store urine
B. Filter blood and remove waste products
C. Produce hormones
D. Control blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nephrons are the functional units of the kidneys responsible for filtering blood to remove waste products, excess ions, and water. This process leads to the formation of urine, aiding in maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. The primary function of nephrons is not to store urine but to filter blood and eliminate waste products. Choice C, 'Produce hormones,' is incorrect as nephrons primarily focus on filtration rather than hormone production. Choice D, 'Control blood pressure,' is also incorrect as while the kidneys do play a role in regulating blood pressure, it is not the primary function of nephrons within the kidneys.

3. A researcher wants to conduct qualitative research. Which method should they use?

A. Collecting patient narratives
B. Tracking the dosage of a drug and its blood levels in the patient
C. Observing a patient's physical changes
D. Writing journal notes about the research experience

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Qualitative research focuses on gathering non-numerical, descriptive data to explore experiences, behaviors, or perspectives. Collecting patient narratives aligns with qualitative research as it involves capturing detailed accounts of individuals' experiences or viewpoints. Choices B, C, and D involve more quantitative approaches by focusing on measurable quantities, observations, or structured note-taking, which are not characteristic of qualitative research methods.

4. Which of the following structures is the natural pacemaker of the heart?

A. Sinoatrial node
B. Submental node
C. Atrioventricular node
D. Scalene node

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The sinoatrial (SA) node is often referred to as the natural pacemaker of the heart because it is a group of cells located in the right atrium responsible for initiating the electrical signals that coordinate the heart's contractions. The SA node sets the rate and rhythm of the heartbeats, making it a crucial component in the heart's function. The other options, Submental node, Atrioventricular node, and Scalene node, are not related to the regulation of the heart's electrical activity. The Submental node is a lymph node located under the chin, the Atrioventricular node is responsible for passing electrical signals from the atria to the ventricles, and the Scalene node does not exist in the context of the heart's electrical system.

5. Mrs. Jones's class is conducting an experiment. They will substitute artificial sweetener for sugar in a cookie recipe to determine the effect on the overall color of the baked cookies. Which of the following should be included in the instructions for the experiment?

A. When preparing the batch that includes artificial sweetener, 20% more water should be included.
B. The bake temperature should be decreased from 425°F to 400°F.
C. The batch with artificial sweetener should be baked on a stainless steel sheet.
D. Ingredient proportions, bake time, bake temperature, and cookie sheet material should all be kept the same between the two batches.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: To ensure a valid comparison and isolate the impact of the artificial sweetener, the experiment should maintain consistency in all factors except the sugar substitution. By keeping ingredient proportions, bake time, bake temperature, and cookie sheet material the same, any observed differences in the color of the cookies can be attributed to the artificial sweetener rather than other variables. Choices A, B, and C introduce additional variables that could confound the results. Choice A would alter the consistency of the recipe by adjusting the water content, Choice B would introduce a change in baking temperature which could affect the outcome, and Choice C suggests a change in the type of baking sheet used, potentially impacting the baking process and results. Therefore, maintaining consistency in all other factors except for the sugar substitution is crucial for a reliable experiment.