which part of the brain is responsible for controlling involuntary actions like breathing and heart rate

ATI TEAS 7

Practice TEAS Science Test

1. Which part of the brain is responsible for controlling involuntary actions like breathing and heart rate?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the Medulla oblongata. This region of the brain is located in the brainstem and is responsible for controlling vital autonomic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. The Cerebellum (Choice A) is primarily involved in coordination and balance. The Cerebrum (Choice C) is responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary muscle movement. The Thalamus (Choice D) acts as a relay station for sensory information but is not primarily responsible for controlling involuntary actions like breathing and heart rate.

2. Which term refers to a position toward the head? Example: The hand is part of the superior extremity.

A. Superior
B. Inferior
C. Medial
D. Lateral

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Superior.' 'Superior' refers to a position toward the head, while 'inferior' is the term for a position toward the feet. In the given example, the hand belongs to the superior extremity, which includes structures closer to the head. 'Inferior' is incorrect as it refers to a position away from the head or toward the feet. 'Medial' describes a position closer to the midline of the body, while 'lateral' refers to a position farther away from the midline.

3. What is the process of converting DNA into a protein called?

A. Transcription
B. Translation
C. Replication
D. Mutation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Translation is the correct answer. It is the process of converting the information in mRNA into a sequence of amino acids to form a protein. Transcription (Choice A) is the process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA. Replication (Choice C) is the process of making an identical copy of DNA. Mutation (Choice D) refers to a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variations in proteins, but it is not the process of converting DNA into a protein.

4. Which part of the brain is responsible for higher brain functions, such as thought and action?

A. Amygdala
B. Brain stem
C. Cerebellum
D. Cerebrum

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The cerebrum is the correct answer as it is responsible for higher brain functions like thought and action. The amygdala (Choice A) is involved in emotions and emotional responses, not higher brain functions. The brain stem (Choice B) controls basic life functions such as breathing and heart rate, not higher brain functions. The cerebellum (Choice C) is mainly responsible for motor control and coordination, not higher brain functions like thought and action.

5. Which type of tissue connects bones to other bones?

A. Tendons
B. Ligaments
C. Cartilage
D. Muscle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Ligaments are the correct answer. Ligaments connect bones to other bones, providing stability in joints. Tendons, on the other hand, connect muscles to bones, allowing movement. Cartilage is a type of connective tissue that cushions joints and helps with smooth movements. Muscle tissue is responsible for generating force and movement in the body, not for connecting bones to each other.