TEAS Practice Test Science

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Nephron. The nephron is the basic structural and functional unit of the kidney because it is responsible for filtering blood, regulating fluid balance, and producing urine. It consists of the glomerulus, tubules, and collecting ducts. The other choices, A: Neuron, C: Glomerulus, and D: Axon, are not correct as they do not perform the specific functions related to kidney physiology. Neurons are nerve cells, glomerulus is a part of the nephron, and axon is a part of a neuron.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To exchange gases. The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air we breathe and our blood. This process is essential for cellular respiration and energy production in the body. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because digestion of food is primarily handled by the digestive system, nutrient transportation is mainly done by the circulatory system, and regulation of body temperature is primarily controlled by the integumentary and nervous systems.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cerebellum. The cerebellum is responsible for coordinating muscle movements by receiving information from the sensory systems, spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to regulate motor movements. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, posture, and smooth coordination of voluntary movements. The other choices are incorrect because: A: The cerebrum is primarily involved in higher brain functions such as thinking, decision-making, and emotions. C: The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information but does not directly control muscle coordination. D: The medulla oblongata is responsible for regulating vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, but not specifically muscle coordination.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dendrite. Dendrites are the part of the neuron that receives signals from other neurons, allowing for communication between neurons. They contain receptors that bind to neurotransmitters released by neighboring neurons. The axon (A) is responsible for transmitting signals away from the cell body. The synapse (C) is the junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released. The myelin sheath (D) is a protective covering that insulates the axon and speeds up signal transmission but does not receive signals from other neurons.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Ventilation. Ventilation specifically refers to the mechanical act of breathing, which involves the movement of air in and out of the lungs. This process is essential for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. A: Diffusion is the process of molecules moving from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. While diffusion plays a role in gas exchange during respiration, it is not the mechanical act of breathing itself. B: Perfusion refers to the process of blood flow through the tissues. Although perfusion is vital for delivering oxygen to the body's cells, it is not the mechanical act of breathing. C: Respiration encompasses the entire process of gas exchange in the body, including both ventilation and the exchange of gases at the cellular level. While respiration is closely related to breathing, it is not specifically the mechanical act of breathing.