ATI TEAS Practice Test Science

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The pleurae play a crucial role in compartmentalizing and lubricating the lungs. The pleura is a double-layered membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the chest cavity. This double-layered structure reduces friction between the lungs and the chest wall during breathing movements, allowing smooth expansion and contraction of the lungs. Options B, C, and D are incorrect. Option B, 'To facilitate the flow of air,' is incorrect because while the pleurae are involved in the respiratory process, their primary function is not to directly facilitate the flow of air. Option C, 'To produce mucus,' is incorrect as the production of mucus is not a primary function of the pleurae. Option D, 'To serve as the passageway for air,' is incorrect as the passageway for air refers to the air passages like the trachea and bronchi, not the pleurae. Therefore, option A is correct as it accurately describes the function of the pleurae.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Pancreas.' While the pancreas contributes to digestion by secreting enzymes, it is not part of the main digestive tract. The esophagus, liver, and stomach are integral components of the digestive system. The esophagus helps in the transport of food to the stomach, the stomach aids in food breakdown, the liver produces bile for fat digestion, and the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes. Therefore, the pancreas is the correct answer as it is not part of the primary digestive tract but supports digestion through enzyme secretion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pituitary. The pituitary gland, also known as the master gland, produces growth hormone, which plays a crucial role in stimulating growth and cell reproduction. Choice B, the thyroid gland, primarily produces hormones that regulate metabolism, not growth hormone. Choice C, the adrenal glands, produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, but not growth hormone. Choice D, the pancreas, produces insulin and glucagon for regulating blood sugar levels, not growth hormone.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct term for a microorganism that lives on or in the human body without causing harm is a commensal microorganism. Commensal microorganisms coexist with the host without causing disease or harm. Choice A, 'Bacteria,' is too broad as not all bacteria are harmless in the body. Choice C, 'Microorganism,' is a general term and does not specifically refer to the harmless nature of the organism. Choice D, 'Host,' refers to the organism harboring the microorganism, not the microorganism itself.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The skin is the largest organ in the human body. It covers the entire body, serving as a protective barrier against pathogens, UV radiation, and physical damage. Additionally, the skin plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature and synthesizing vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. The liver is the largest internal organ, the brain is the control center of the body, and the heart is a vital organ responsible for pumping blood throughout the body. However, none of these organs are the largest in terms of surface area or overall size.