ATI TEAS Science Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Valves in arteries serve the crucial function of preventing backflow of blood. Arteries carry blood at high pressure away from the heart, and the valves ensure that blood flows in one direction, towards the capillaries, to maintain efficient circulation. Without these valves, there would be a risk of blood flowing backward, compromising the effectiveness of blood circulation in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A incorrectly suggests that valves maintain high blood pressure for nutrient diffusion in capillaries, which is not their function. Choice C inaccurately compares valves to vestigial traits, like the appendix, implying they serve no purpose, which is untrue. Choice D is incorrect as valves are indeed present in arteries to regulate blood flow, not just in veins.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The diastole cycle in the heart refers to the relaxation phase, where the heart chambers relax and fill with blood. This phase is crucial for the heart to refill and prepare for the next contraction (systole), which pumps blood out of the heart. Therefore, the correct answer is choice A, 'Relaxation of the heart.' Choices B, C, and D are incorrect in the context of cardiac physiology. Choice B, 'Contraction of the heart,' refers to systole, the phase of heart contraction. Choice C, 'Pulse rate of the heart,' is related to the number of heartbeats per minute, not the diastole cycle specifically. Choice D, 'Blood circulation,' is a broader term that encompasses the entire circulatory system rather than focusing on the heart's specific relaxation phase.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps prepare the body for the 'fight or flight' response by increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and mobilizing energy sources. Choice A, Insulin, is incorrect as it is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. Choice C, Glucagon, is also produced by the pancreas and functions to increase blood glucose levels. Choice D, Thyroxine, is produced by the thyroid gland and regulates metabolism, not specifically in response to stress.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Neurons are the correct answer as they are specialized cells in the nervous system that transmit electrical impulses throughout the body. Neurons have structures like axons and dendrites that enable the transmission of electrical signals. Platelets are responsible for blood clotting, red blood cells carry oxygen, and white blood cells are part of the immune system; however, none of these cell types play a role in carrying electrical impulses in the nervous system.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct function of the pons is to relay messages from the cortex to the cerebellum. The pons acts as a bridge between different brain regions, facilitating communication and coordination of movements. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The pons is not the center for emotion and motivation, does not control hormone production, and is not primarily responsible for involuntary actions like breathing. Understanding the role of the pons in relaying messages between brain regions is crucial for comprehending its function in the central nervous system.