which of the following is a function of the large intestine

ATI TEAS 7

Practice TEAS Science Test

1. Which of the following is a function of the large intestine?

A. Absorption of water
B. Production of vitamin K
C. Production of vitamin B
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' The large intestine performs various functions, including the absorption of water, production of vitamin K, and production of some B vitamins. Water absorption is a crucial function of the large intestine, helping to concentrate waste material into feces. Additionally, the large intestine hosts beneficial bacteria that produce vitamin K and some B vitamins, which are absorbed into the body. Choices A, B, and C individually represent specific functions of the large intestine, while choice D correctly encompasses all these functions, making it the most comprehensive and accurate answer.

2. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting which neurotransmitter?

A. Dopamine
B. Acetylcholine
C. Serotonin
D. Glutamate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Parkinson's disease is primarily caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in coordinating movement. The reduction of dopamine levels leads to the characteristic motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Choice B, acetylcholine, is involved in functions like muscle contraction and autonomic nervous system regulation but is not primarily affected in Parkinson's disease. Serotonin (Choice C) is involved in mood regulation and sleep, not the main neurotransmitter affected in Parkinson's disease. Glutamate (Choice D) is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is not primarily implicated in Parkinson's disease pathophysiology.

3. What does the phrase 'survival of the fittest' refer to?

A. Organisms with the most complex anatomical structures are more likely to survive and reproduce.
B. Organisms that demonstrate the best adaptations to their environment have a higher chance of survival and reproduction.
C. All organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success regardless of their traits.
D. Only the strongest and most aggressive individuals within a population will survive and reproduce.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The phrase 'survival of the fittest' is often associated with the concept of natural selection, proposed by Charles Darwin. Natural selection is the process by which organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to the next generation. This process does not necessarily favor the most complex anatomical structures (option A) or the strongest and most aggressive individuals (option D). Instead, it emphasizes the importance of adaptations that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment. Option C is incorrect because natural selection results in differential reproductive success based on an organism's traits, meaning that not all organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success.

4. Which part of the brain plays a crucial role in the regulation of balance, coordination, and posture?

A. Thalamus
B. Cerebrum
C. Cerebellum
D. Hypothalamus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The cerebellum is the part of the brain that plays a crucial role in the regulation of balance, coordination, and posture. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to coordinate voluntary movements. While the thalamus is involved in relaying sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex, the cerebrum is responsible for higher brain functions such as thought and action. The hypothalamus is involved in various bodily functions including the regulation of body temperature, hunger, and thirst, but it is not primarily responsible for balance, coordination, and posture. Therefore, the correct answer is the cerebellum.

5. Which of the following hormones is primarily responsible for regulating metabolism?

A. Insulin
B. Testosterone
C. Adrenaline
D. Thyroid hormone

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Thyroid hormone is the correct answer as it is primarily responsible for regulating metabolism. It plays a crucial role in controlling the body's metabolic rate, affecting how the body uses energy from food. Thyroid hormone levels can influence metabolism, energy production, and body weight regulation. Insulin, choice A, is involved in regulating blood sugar levels, not directly metabolism. Testosterone, choice B, is a sex hormone that primarily affects the development of male reproductive tissues. Adrenaline, choice C, is involved in the fight-or-flight response and not primarily responsible for regulating metabolism.