TEAS 7 science practice

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for inhalation. When it contracts, it moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and creating a pressure gradient that allows air to flow into the lungs. While the intercostal muscles also play a role in expanding the chest cavity during inhalation, the diaphragm is the main muscle involved in this process. Abdominal muscles and pectoral muscles are not directly involved in the process of inhalation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the windpipe (trachea) during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action ensures that food and liquids are directed to the esophagus and down into the stomach, rather than entering the respiratory system, which could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they describe functions of other structures in the body that are not related to the role of the epiglottis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The seminal vesicles in the male reproductive system are responsible for producing the fluid that carries sperm. These glands contribute a significant portion of the semen's volume, providing nutrients and protection for the sperm, which helps in their motility and survival. The testes are responsible for producing sperm cells, not the fluid that carries them. The scrotum is the external sac that holds the testes and helps regulate their temperature but does not produce the fluid. The prostate gland produces a milky fluid that helps nourish and protect sperm but is not the main structure responsible for producing the fluid that carries sperm.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The bicep and tricep muscles form an antagonistic muscle pair, where one muscle contracts while the other relaxes. The bicep, located on the front of the upper arm, is responsible for arm flexion (bending the elbow), while the tricep, situated on the back of the upper arm, is responsible for arm extension (straightening the elbow). This opposing action allows for controlled movement at the elbow joint. Choice B, hamstring and quadriceps, are not opposing muscles in the context of the knee joint; the hamstring group flexes the knee, while the quadriceps group extends it. Choices C and D do not represent an opposing muscle pair related to joint movement.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Alpha decay involves the release of a helium nucleus, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. In contrast, beta decay releases an electron (beta-minus decay) or a positron (beta-plus decay). This significant distinction in the particles emitted during the decay processes distinguishes alpha decay from beta decay. Choice A is incorrect because alpha and beta decay release different types of particles. Choice C is incorrect as beta decay is more common than alpha decay in many cases. Choice D is incorrect as it does not specifically address the particles released during alpha and beta decay.