which of the following is the largest organ in the human body

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology 2023

1. Which of the following is the largest organ in the human body?

A. Liver
B. Skin
C. Brain
D. Heart

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The skin is the largest organ in the human body. It serves as a protective barrier against the environment, regulates temperature, and provides sensory information. The liver, brain, and heart are vital organs, but they are not as extensive as the skin. The liver is primarily responsible for detoxification and metabolism. The brain is the control center of the body, coordinating various functions. The heart is a crucial organ that pumps blood throughout the body. However, in terms of size, the skin surpasses all of these organs.

2. What is the role of enzymes in the body?

A. To produce energy
B. To speed up chemical reactions
C. To transport molecules
D. To repair tissues

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate and speed up chemical reactions in the body. They do not produce energy but enable various processes such as digestion and metabolism by lowering the activation energy required for reactions to occur. Choice A is incorrect because enzymes do not produce energy themselves but assist in energy production through reactions. Choice C is incorrect as enzymes do not primarily function in transporting molecules, although some may have a role in specific transport processes. Choice D is incorrect as the primary role of enzymes is not to repair tissues, but rather to catalyze biochemical reactions.

3. What is the function of the adrenal glands?

A. To regulate blood sugar
B. To produce hormones
C. To produce red blood cells
D. To filter blood

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The adrenal glands function to produce hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones play essential roles in regulating metabolism, immune response, and the body's response to stress. Therefore, the correct answer is that the adrenal glands produce hormones. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as regulating blood sugar is primarily done by the pancreas, producing red blood cells is the function of the bone marrow, and filtering blood is carried out by the kidneys, not the adrenal glands.

4. The anterior chamber of the eye lies between the ___________.

A. iris and lens
B. lens and retina
C. cornea and iris
D. retina and optic nerve

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The anterior chamber of the eye is the fluid-filled space located between the cornea and the iris in the front part of the eye. It contains aqueous humor and helps maintain intraocular pressure. The space between the iris and the lens is known as the anterior chamber, making option A, 'iris and lens,' the correct choice. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not describe the correct anatomical location of the anterior chamber.

5. How is pepsin utilized by the body?

A. To break down proteins
B. To break down starches
C. To emulsify fats and oils
D. To absorb water and nutrients

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pepsin is an enzyme produced in the stomach that is essential for breaking down proteins during digestion. It functions by breaking down large protein molecules into smaller peptides, which are further broken down into amino acids for absorption in the intestines. Therefore, option A, 'To break down proteins,' is the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the specific function of pepsin in the body.