which part of the brain controls breathing and heart rate

ATI TEAS 7

Practice TEAS Science Test

1. Which part of the brain controls breathing and heart rate?

A. Cerebrum
B. Medulla oblongata
C. Thalamus
D. Cerebellum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is the correct answer because it is responsible for controlling involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate. The cerebrum (Choice A) is primarily associated with higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary movements, not with regulating basic bodily functions like breathing and heart rate. The thalamus (Choice C) serves as a relay station for sensory information but is not directly involved in controlling breathing and heart rate. The cerebellum (Choice D) plays a role in coordination and balance, not in regulating respiratory and cardiac functions.

2. Which level of protein structure is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone?

A. Primary
B. Secondary
C. Tertiary
D. Quaternary

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Secondary. The secondary structure of a protein is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone. This level of structure is characterized by the formation of alpha helices and beta sheets, which are stabilized by hydrogen bonds between amino acids along the polypeptide chain. Choice A, Primary, refers to the linear sequence of amino acids in the protein. Choice C, Tertiary, involves the 3D folding of the entire polypeptide chain. Choice D, Quaternary, pertains to the arrangement of multiple polypeptide subunits in a protein complex.

3. What are isotopes?

A. Atoms of the same element with different numbers of protons.
B. Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
C. Atoms of different elements with the same number of protons.
D. Atoms of different elements with the same number of electrons.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons. While isotopes share the same number of protons, which determines the element, they differ in the number of neutrons. This variance in neutron count results in isotopes having different atomic masses. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes have the same number of protons (same element) but differ in the number of neutrons. Choice C is incorrect as it describes atoms of different elements, not isotopes of the same element. Choice D is also incorrect because isotopes can have different numbers of electrons, but what defines isotopes is the variation in neutron numbers.

4. What is the difference between a pure substance and a mixture?

A. Pure substances have a fixed composition, mixtures don't.
B. Mixtures have a fixed composition, pure substances don't.
C. Pure substances can be in any state, mixtures are not always solids.
D. Pure substances are always elements, mixtures are always compounds.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pure substances have a definite and constant composition, meaning they are made up of only one type of atom or molecule with fixed proportions. This composition does not vary. On the other hand, mixtures are composed of two or more substances physically combined. The components of a mixture can be present in varying proportions, leading to a variable composition. Choice A is correct as it accurately distinguishes between pure substances and mixtures based on the fixed composition of pure substances and the variable composition of mixtures. Choice B is incorrect because mixtures, not pure substances, have variable compositions. Choice C is incorrect as both pure substances and mixtures can exist in different states. Choice D is incorrect because pure substances can be compounds as well, not exclusively elements, and mixtures can contain elements and compounds.

5. Memory B cells and memory T cells are crucial for immunological memory. How does immunological memory enhance the immune response upon re-exposure to a pathogen?

A. It increases the production of the same ineffective antibodies.
B. It allows for a quicker and more robust immune response.
C. It suppresses the immune system to prevent overreaction.
D. It triggers a completely different immune response.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Immunological memory enhances the immune response upon re-exposure to a pathogen by allowing for a quicker and more robust immune response. Memory B cells and memory T cells are primed to recognize the pathogen quickly and mount a faster and more effective response, leading to a more efficient clearance of the pathogen. Choice A is incorrect because immunological memory does not increase the production of ineffective antibodies but rather promotes the production of specific antibodies that are effective against the pathogen. Choice C is incorrect as immunological memory does not suppress the immune system; instead, it enhances the response. Choice D is incorrect because immunological memory leads to a recall of the specific immune response mounted during the initial exposure, not a completely different response.