ATI TEAS Science Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is an increase in CO2. In a healthy individual, the primary drive to breathe is regulated by the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. When CO2 levels increase, it triggers the body to increase the rate and depth of breathing to eliminate excess CO2 and restore the balance. This response is more powerful than other stimuli such as acidosis, alkalosis, or loss of oxygen. While acidosis and alkalosis can affect breathing, an increase in CO2 has a more direct and immediate impact. Loss of oxygen (hypoxia) is a potent stimulus, but the body's response to increased CO2 levels is generally more pronounced and immediate in healthy individuals.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Kidneys. The kidneys are vital organs in the human body responsible for filtering blood to remove waste products and excess substances, producing urine as a result. The liver plays a role in detoxification and metabolism. The pancreas is involved in digestion and blood sugar regulation. The heart pumps blood throughout the body but does not filter blood or produce urine.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Enzymes act as biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body. They lower the activation energy required for reactions to occur, thus facilitating processes like digestion, metabolism, and other essential functions. Choice A is incorrect as the transportation of oxygen is primarily carried out by red blood cells. Choice C is incorrect as the regulation of body temperature involves mechanisms such as sweating and shivering. Choice D is incorrect as energy storage is mainly performed by molecules like glycogen and triglycerides.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A - Keratinocytes. The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes, which are a type of epithelial cell. Keratinocytes synthesize the protein keratin, providing protection against physical damage and water loss. While epithelial cells are correct, specifying keratinocytes is more precise. Fibroblasts are not the main cell type in the epidermis; they are found in the dermis, where they produce collagen and other extracellular matrix components. Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin pigment in the skin and are also present in the epidermis, but they are not the predominant cell type like keratinocytes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: During inspiration, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward. This action increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, which lowers the air pressure inside the lungs, allowing air to flow in. The downward movement and contraction of the diaphragm create the necessary space for the lungs to expand and fill with air. Choice A, 'It moves upward,' is incorrect as the diaphragm moves downward. Choice B, 'It moves downward,' is partially correct but misses the contraction aspect. Choice C, 'It expands,' is incorrect as the diaphragm itself does not expand during inspiration. Therefore, choice D, 'It contracts and moves downward,' is the most accurate description of the diaphragm's action during inspiration.