which gland is often referred to as the master gland
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology

1. Which gland is often referred to as the 'master gland'?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it controls the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body. It secretes a variety of hormones that regulate various bodily functions and play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. The thyroid gland (Choice A) plays a role in regulating metabolism, the adrenal gland (Choice C) secretes hormones involved in stress response, and the pineal gland (Choice D) produces melatonin to regulate sleep-wake cycles, but they are not known as the 'master gland' due to their functions.

2. Which is a posterior feature of the human leg?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is a strong tendon located at the back of the human leg, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. This positioning makes it a posterior feature, situated at the rear of the leg. The patella, also known as the kneecap, is positioned at the front of the leg, making it an anterior feature. The quadriceps sartorius are muscles located in the front of the thigh, not at the back of the leg. Additionally, the triceps brachii is a muscle found in the upper arm, not in the leg, making it an incorrect choice.

3. What is the main function of white blood cells?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of white blood cells, also known as leukocytes, is to fight infections and foreign invaders to protect the body from harm. They play a crucial role in the immune system by identifying and destroying pathogens like bacteria and viruses, essential for maintaining the body's health and overall immunity. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as carrying oxygen is primarily done by red blood cells, carrying nutrients is a function of various body systems, and removing waste products is mainly the role of the kidneys and liver, not white blood cells.

4. The dorsal body cavity is _______ to the ventral body cavity.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The dorsal body cavity is positioned on the back (posterior) side of the body, whereas the ventral body cavity is on the front (anterior) side. Therefore, the dorsal body cavity is posterior to the ventral body cavity. Choice A, 'medial,' refers to a position toward the midline, not the back or front. Choice B, 'deep,' is a term used to describe structures that are further away from the surface, not their position in relation to each other. Choice D, 'anterior,' is the opposite of 'posterior' and refers to the front side of the body, not the back.

5. Which hormone is produced by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Insulin. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, is the hormone responsible for lowering blood glucose levels. It achieves this by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells, thereby reducing the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream. Choice A, Glucagon, is actually a hormone produced by the pancreas that works to raise blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose. Choice C, Cortisol, is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, not the pancreas, and is involved in stress response and regulation of metabolism. Choice D, Melatonin, is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is not directly involved in blood glucose level regulation.

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