which of the following is the main function of the pancreas

ATI TEAS 7

ati teas 7 science

1. What is the main function of the pancreas?

A. To store food and break it down into smaller pieces
B. To absorb nutrients into the bloodstream
C. To produce enzymes that help digest food
D. To regulate blood sugar levels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the pancreas is to produce digestive enzymes that aid in breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in food. These enzymes are essential for the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. While the pancreas also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels by producing insulin and glucagon, its primary function is to produce enzymes for food digestion. Options A and B are incorrect as the pancreas is not involved in storing food or absorbing nutrients into the bloodstream.

2. Which hormone is responsible for the characteristic changes experienced during puberty, such as breast development and menstruation in females?

A. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
B. Luteinizing hormone (LH)
C. Estrogen
D. Progesterone

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Estrogen is the hormone responsible for the characteristic changes experienced during puberty in females, such as breast development and menstruation. Estrogen plays a crucial role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are primarily involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Progesterone, on the other hand, is important for preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining pregnancy, but it is not the primary hormone responsible for the changes seen during puberty in females.

3. If a patient had a heart attack and tissue in the left ventricle lost blood flow, what would you most expect to happen?

A. Blood would not flow from the lungs.
B. Blood would back up in the legs.
C. Blood would not be pumped to the body.
D. Blood would not be oxygenated.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Blood would not be pumped to the body.' When tissue in the left ventricle loses blood flow due to a heart attack, the ability of the left ventricle to pump oxygenated blood to the body is compromised. This can lead to serious consequences for the patient's overall health and organ function. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a heart attack affecting the left ventricle does not directly impact blood flow from the lungs, cause blood to back up in the legs, or prevent blood from being oxygenated. The primary concern is the compromised ability of the left ventricle to pump blood to the rest of the body, affecting overall circulation and organ perfusion.

4. Which of the following is NOT a major division of the nervous system?

A. Peripheral nervous system
B. Central nervous system
C. Somatic nervous system
D. Autonomic nervous system

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Somatic nervous system. The major divisions of the nervous system are the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, which includes all the nerves outside of the central nervous system. The somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements and reflexes, is a part of the peripheral nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is another subdivision of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion. Therefore, the somatic nervous system is not a major division of the nervous system, making it the correct answer.

5. What is the main function of vacuoles in plant cells?

A. To provide structural support for the cell
B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
D. To store water, enzymes, and waste products

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Vacuoles in plant cells primarily function as storage organelles. They store water, enzymes, pigments, and waste products, helping to maintain turgor pressure within the cell. This turgor pressure provides structural support for the plant cell. While vacuoles can also participate in transporting substances within the cell, their main role is storage. The synthesis of proteins and lipids is mainly handled by other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Choice A is incorrect because while vacuoles indirectly contribute to structural support by maintaining turgor pressure, their primary function is storage. Choice B is incorrect as vacuoles are not primarily responsible for transporting substances in and out of the cell. Choice C is incorrect as vacuoles do not synthesize proteins and lipids; this function is carried out by other organelles.