TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: insulin production and blood sugar regulation. The liver is not responsible for insulin production; it is produced by the pancreas. The liver does play a role in blood sugar regulation by storing and releasing glucose, but it is not the primary organ for insulin production. The other choices (A, B, C) are functions of the liver: A) nutrient processing involves metabolizing and storing nutrients, B) blood filtration and detoxification involves removing toxins from the blood, and C) cholesterol and lipoprotein production involves synthesizing cholesterol and lipoproteins.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Peristalsis is the correct term as it refers to the rhythmic muscle contractions that propel food through the digestive tract. First, the circular muscles contract behind the food bolus, pushing it forward. Then, the longitudinal muscles contract, shortening the tract and pushing the food further. This process continues in a wave-like fashion, aiding in digestion. A: Digestion refers to the breakdown of food into smaller molecules. B: Deglutition is the process of swallowing food. C: Defecation is the elimination of waste from the body. Therefore, peristalsis is the correct term as it specifically describes the muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: At the center of the brain hemispheres. The pineal gland is located in the brain, specifically at the center of the brain hemispheres. It is a small endocrine gland responsible for secreting melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the pineal gland is not located below the larynx, above the kidney, or at the base of the brain. The pineal gland's location in the center of the brain makes it unique and vital for regulating various physiological functions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is the site of lipid synthesis due to the presence of enzymes involved in lipid metabolism. It lacks ribosomes, unlike the rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is primarily involved in protein synthesis. The Golgi apparatus functions in processing and packaging proteins for secretion. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis, not lipid synthesis. Therefore, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is the organelle responsible for lipid synthesis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In anaphase of mitosis, chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell, ensuring each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. This ensures genetic stability and accurate distribution of genetic material. In metaphase, chromosomes align at the cell's equator but do not separate. Prophase is the initial stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense but do not divide, and telophase is the final stage where chromosomes decondense and nuclear envelopes reform. Therefore, anaphase is the correct phase where chromatids divide into chromosomes and migrate to opposite ends of the cell.