which digestive enzyme is primarily responsible for breaking down proteins

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. Which digestive enzyme is primarily responsible for breaking down proteins?

A. Pepsin
B. Lipase
C. Amylase
D. Maltase

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Pepsin. Pepsin is primarily responsible for breaking down proteins in the stomach. It is produced in an inactive form called pepsinogen, which becomes activated by the acidic environment in the stomach. Pepsin functions by breaking down proteins into smaller peptides, which are further digested by other enzymes in the small intestine. Lipase is responsible for breaking down fats, amylase for carbohydrates, and maltase for converting maltose into glucose. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are associated with breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and converting maltose, respectively, not proteins.

2. How do killer T cells recognize infected cells?

A. The B cells flag the infected cells with amino acids.
B. Tiny bits of the virus's RNA are left around the cell.
C. Macrophages show up to help consume the infected cell.
D. The T cells have receptors that recognize the proteins the virus leaves on the surface of the cell.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Killer T cells recognize infected cells by detecting viral proteins displayed on the surface of these cells. The T cells possess receptors specifically designed to identify these viral proteins, allowing them to target and eliminate the infected cells. Choice A is incorrect because B cells are not directly involved in the recognition process of infected cells by killer T cells. Choice B is incorrect because tiny bits of the virus's RNA being left around the cell is not how killer T cells primarily recognize infected cells. Choice C is incorrect because while macrophages play a role in immune responses, they do not directly assist in the recognition of infected cells by killer T cells.

3. What is the function of the rib cage in the human body?

A. To protect the digestive organs
B. To protect the lungs and heart
C. To support movement
D. To regulate body temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The rib cage plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs, specifically the lungs and heart, from external injuries. Choice A is incorrect because the rib cage does not primarily protect the digestive organs. Choice C is incorrect as the primary function of the rib cage is not to support movement, but to protect internal organs. Choice D is incorrect as regulating body temperature is not a function typically associated with the rib cage.

4. What are chromosomes made of?

A. DNA and RNA
B. DNA and protein
C. Protein and RNA
D. DNA and lipids

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Chromosomes are made up of DNA and associated proteins. These proteins help package and organize the DNA within the cell, playing a crucial role in gene regulation and cell division. While RNA is involved in various cellular processes, it is not a primary component of chromosomes. Lipids are not a fundamental component of chromosomes, which primarily consist of DNA and proteins.

5. Which of the following best describes the term homeostasis?

A. The ability to maintain a constant body temperature
B. The ability to maintain a stable internal environment
C. The ability to increase body temperature when cold
D. The ability to regulate blood glucose levels

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'The ability to maintain a stable internal environment.' Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to regulate and maintain a stable internal environment, which includes variables like body temperature, pH levels, and fluid balance. It involves processes that help keep the body's internal conditions within a narrow range, despite external changes. While maintaining body temperature is a component of homeostasis, it is not the complete definition of the term. Choice C, 'The ability to increase body temperature when cold,' is incorrect as homeostasis aims to maintain stability rather than promoting temperature increases in response to external conditions. Choice D, 'The ability to regulate blood glucose levels,' is also incorrect as this is a specific function related to glucose homeostasis, which is a part of overall homeostatic processes but not the sole definition of homeostasis itself.