which is true of the process of digestion

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Test

1. Which statement is true regarding the process of digestion?

A. Digestion of starch begins in the mouth.
B. Amylase is produced by the stomach to help break down food in the upper intestine.
C. The di- and tri-saccharides produced in early digestion are absorbed through the intestinal wall.
D. Proteases are responsible for breaking down starches.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement 'Digestion of starch begins in the mouth' is correct. Salivary amylase, an enzyme produced in the salivary glands, initiates the breakdown of starch into simpler sugars like maltose in the mouth before further digestion in the stomach. This initial breakdown of starch is crucial in the digestion of carbohydrates, marking the beginning of the digestive process. Choice B is incorrect because amylase is produced in the salivary glands, not the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because di- and tri-saccharides are further broken down into monosaccharides before absorption. Choice D is incorrect because proteases are enzymes that break down proteins, not starches.

2. What is the strongest evidence for evolution?

A. The fossil record
B. Comparative anatomy
C. Biogeography
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) The fossil record provides evidence of how organisms have changed over time, showing transitional forms and the progression of species. B) Comparative anatomy involves studying the similarities and differences in the structures of different species, which can reveal common ancestry and evolutionary relationships. C) Biogeography examines the distribution of species around the world, which can be explained by evolution and continental drift. By considering all of the above evidence together, scientists can build a comprehensive understanding of evolution and how species have changed and diversified over time.

3. Which of the following is NOT a part of a plant cell?

A. Cell wall
B. Plasma membrane
C. Vacuole
D. Mitochondria

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Cell wall: This is a structure found in plant cells that provides support and protection. B) Plasma membrane: Also known as the cell membrane, it surrounds the cell and regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell. C) Vacuole: This is a storage organelle found in plant cells that stores water, nutrients, and waste products. D) Mitochondria: Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles found in both plant and animal cells. They are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration. Therefore, the correct answer is D) Mitochondria, as it is a part of a plant cell.

4. Which element shares the same group (family) on the periodic table with helium (He)?

A. Neon (Ne)
B. Boron (B)
C. Carbon (C)
D. Oxygen (O)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Elements within the same group share similar electron configurations in their outermost shells, resulting in comparable chemical properties. Helium and Neon both belong to Group 18 (Noble Gases), explaining their similarities. Boron, Carbon, and Oxygen are not in the same group as Helium on the periodic table. Boron is in Group 13, Carbon is in Group 14, and Oxygen is in Group 16, which are different from Helium's Group 18.

5. What is the role of the pancreas in the digestive system?

A. To store bile
B. To secrete digestive enzymes
C. To digest proteins
D. To absorb nutrients

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To secrete digestive enzymes.' The pancreas plays a crucial role in the digestive system by secreting digestive enzymes that aid in breaking down food in the small intestine. These enzymes help in the digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, facilitating the absorption of nutrients from the digested food. Choice A is incorrect because the pancreas is not responsible for storing bile; the gallbladder stores bile. Choice C is incorrect because the pancreas secretes enzymes for protein digestion but does not digest proteins itself. Choice D is incorrect as the absorption of nutrients primarily occurs in the small intestine, not in the pancreas.