which gland is responsible for regulating metabolism and growth

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology

1. Which gland is responsible for regulating metabolism and growth?

A. Thyroid gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the Thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism and growth. It produces hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which play essential roles in controlling metabolic processes, growth, and development throughout the body. Choice B, the Pituitary gland, although important for hormone regulation, is not primarily responsible for regulating metabolism and growth. Choices C and D, the Adrenal gland and Pineal gland, respectively, have different functions and are not primarily involved in regulating metabolism and growth.

2. What is the normal pH of human arterial blood?

A. 6.8
B. 7.4
C. 7.9
D. 8.2

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The normal pH of human arterial blood is approximately 7.4. This slightly alkaline pH is crucial for the proper functioning of enzymes and biochemical processes in the body. Any significant deviation from this pH level can result in serious health issues such as acidosis or alkalosis. Choice A (6.8) is incorrect as it is lower than the normal pH of arterial blood, indicating acidity. Choice C (7.9) and Choice D (8.2) are incorrect as they are higher than the normal pH of arterial blood, indicating alkalinity.

3. What is the name of the structure that prevents food from entering the airway?

A. trachea
B. esophagus
C. diaphragm
D. epiglottis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The epiglottis is the structure that prevents food from entering the airway. It acts as a lid over the trachea during swallowing, directing food to the esophagus instead of the windpipe (trachea). The trachea (Choice A) is the windpipe that allows air to pass into the lungs, the esophagus (Choice B) is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, and the diaphragm (Choice C) is a muscle involved in breathing and not in preventing food passage.

4. Which vitamin is essential for the maintenance of healthy skin?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin C
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin K

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Vitamin A is the correct answer. It is crucial for maintaining healthy skin as it supports skin cell growth, repair, and overall skin health. Additionally, vitamin A plays a role in vision and immune function. Deficiency in vitamin A can lead to skin issues such as dryness and poor wound healing. Vitamin C is known for its role in collagen synthesis and antioxidant properties, while Vitamin D is important for bone health and immunity. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, but it is not primarily associated with skin health.

5. What is the function of the urinary bladder?

A. To filter waste from the blood
B. To store urine
C. To regulate fluid balance
D. To remove waste from the body

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To store urine. The urinary bladder's primary function is to store urine produced by the kidneys until it is ready to be excreted from the body. It acts as a reservoir that temporarily holds urine until an appropriate time for elimination. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the urinary bladder does not filter waste from the blood, regulate fluid balance, or directly remove waste from the body. These functions are primarily carried out by the kidneys and other organs in the excretory system.