which of the following is the primary function of the cell membrane

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

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 genetic material

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is to regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selectively permeable barrier, allowing specific molecules to pass through while blocking others. This role is crucial for maintaining the internal environment of the cell by enabling essential nutrients to enter and waste products to exit. While the cell membrane provides some structural support for the cell, its main function is substance transport. Protein and lipid synthesis predominantly occur in organelles like the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, and storing genetic material is the nucleus's responsibility. Therefore, choices C (To synthesize proteins and lipids) and D (To store genetic material) are incorrect as these functions are carried out by other cell organelles, not the cell membrane.

2. What happens when an atom loses an electron?

A. It forms a molecule.
B. It gains a positive charge and becomes an ion.
C. It alters its elemental identity.
D. No change occurs; it remains neutral.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an atom loses an electron, it gains a positive charge and becomes an ion. This occurs because the number of protons in the atom exceeds the number of electrons, leading to a positive charge. Therefore, the atom undergoes a transformation into an ion by losing an electron. Choice A is incorrect because losing an electron does not result in the formation of a molecule, as molecules are made up of bonded atoms. Choice C is incorrect because losing an electron does not change the fundamental identity of the atom; it only changes its charge. Choice D is incorrect because losing an electron causes the atom to become positively charged, altering its neutrality.

3. Which of the following statements is true about an allergic reaction?

A. An allergic reaction, such as hives or wheezing, results from overactive body systems such as the integumentary and respiratory systems.
B. An allergic reaction is a result of overactive B-cells in the body that release various immunoglobulins.
C. An allergic reaction is caused by overactive mast cells in the body, which are stimulated by Immunoglobulin E.
D. An allergic reaction involves substances like histamine, keratin, and collagen.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Mast cells are responsible for releasing histamine and other chemicals during an allergic response. Choice A is incorrect because hives and wheezing are symptoms of an allergic reaction, not the causes. Choice B is incorrect as B-cells are not directly involved in allergic reactions. Choice D is incorrect as keratin and collagen are not typically involved in allergic reactions, and histamine is released by mast cells.

4. What is the pathway of oxygenated blood from the lungs?

A. Lungs to the left atrium, through the mitral valve into the left ventricle, pumped into the aorta upon contraction, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and capillaries
B. Lungs to the right atrium, through the mitral valve into the right ventricle, pumped into the aorta upon contraction, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and veins
C. Lungs to the left atrium, directly to the right aorta, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and capillaries
D. Lungs to the left atrium, through the septal valve, stored in the left ventricles, then dispersed to tissues via a network of arteries and capillaries

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct pathway of oxygenated blood from the lungs is as follows: Oxygenated blood travels from the lungs to the left atrium, then passes through the mitral valve into the left ventricle. From there, it is pumped into the aorta upon contraction of the heart and is then dispersed to various tissues throughout the body via a network of arteries and capillaries. Choice B is incorrect as it incorrectly mentions the right atrium and ventricle, which are associated with deoxygenated blood. Choice C is incorrect as it mentions a direct connection to the right aorta, which does not exist in the circulatory system. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the septal valve (which is not anatomically correct) and storing blood in the left ventricle, which does not occur in the normal circulation of blood.

5. What is the function of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart?

A. To generate electrical impulses for heart contraction
B. To transport blood throughout the body
C. To provide lubrication for heart movement
D. To protect the heart and anchor it in place

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The pericardium is a double-walled sac that surrounds the heart and contains a small amount of fluid to provide lubrication for the movement of the heart within the chest cavity. It helps reduce friction as the heart beats and moves. Choice A is incorrect because the generation of electrical impulses for heart contraction is primarily the function of the heart's specialized conduction system. Choice B is incorrect as the pericardium is not involved in the transportation of blood throughout the body. Choice D is also incorrect as while the pericardium does protect the heart, its primary function is to provide lubrication and reduce friction.