Practice TEAS Science Test

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Pia mater. Pia mater is the innermost meningeal layer that is a thin membrane containing nerves and blood vessels. It directly covers the brain and spinal cord, supplying nourishment to the underlying cells. Arachnoid mater (A) is the middle meningeal layer that does not contain nerves and blood vessels. Dura mater (B) is the tough outermost layer that does not supply nourishment. Periosteum (C) is a connective tissue covering bones, not the meninges.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Medulla oblongata. The medulla oblongata, located in the brainstem, controls essential functions like breathing and heart rate. It contains centers that regulate these automatic processes. The cerebrum (A) is responsible for higher brain functions, not controlling basic physiological functions. The thalamus (C) serves as a relay station for sensory information, not for regulating breathing and heart rate. The cerebellum (D) plays a role in coordination and movement, not in controlling vital functions like breathing and heart rate.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vitamin D. When skin is exposed to sunlight, it triggers the production of Vitamin D in the body. Sunlight activates a form of cholesterol in the skin, which then converts to Vitamin D through a series of chemical reactions. Vitamin A (Choice A) is not produced by sunlight but is found in foods like carrots. Vitamin K (Choice C) is involved in blood clotting and bone health but is not produced by sunlight. Vitamin E (Choice D) is an antioxidant found in foods like nuts and seeds, not produced through sun exposure.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mediastinum. The mediastinum is the space between the lungs that contains vital structures such as the heart, major blood vessels, esophagus, and trachea. It separates the lungs into right and left compartments. The pericardial cavity (B) is the space that surrounds the heart within the mediastinum. The pleural cavity (C) is the space between the lungs and the chest wall, not between the lungs themselves. Thoracic space (D) is a vague term and does not specifically refer to the space between the lungs.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Insulin is the correct answer as it helps regulate blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. Adrenaline, cortisol, and melatonin do not directly regulate blood sugar levels like insulin does. Adrenaline primarily affects the fight-or-flight response, cortisol is involved in stress response and metabolism, and melatonin regulates sleep-wake cycles. Insulin's role in blood sugar regulation is crucial for maintaining proper glucose levels in the body.