ATI TEAS Practice Test Science

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the heartbeat actually begins when the heart muscles relax, allowing the chambers to fill with blood. The contraction phase follows, which propels blood out of the heart. The other statements are accurate in describing the normal sequence of events in the heart's functioning: the atria contract to push blood into the ventricles, the valves close to prevent backflow of blood, and the ventricles contract to pump blood out of the heart.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To contract and expand the lungs. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in the respiratory system by contracting and expanding the lungs. When it contracts, it flattens, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and causing air to be drawn into the lungs. Conversely, when it relaxes, it moves back up, decreasing the thoracic cavity volume and pushing air out of the lungs. This process is essential for breathing and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. The diaphragm is not involved in regulating blood pressure, producing red blood cells, or absorbing oxygen. Its primary function is to aid in respiration by facilitating breathing through its contraction and relaxation movements.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Scientific Theory.' A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world. It is based on a large body of evidence and has withstood rigorous testing and scrutiny. Scientific theories are considered the strongest scientific arguments because they have predictive power and are supported by a significant amount of empirical data. Choice A, 'Scientific Hypothesis,' is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon but lacks the extensive evidence and testing that theories undergo. Choice B, 'Scientific Law,' describes a consistent and predictable relationship between variables but does not explain why the relationship exists. Choice C, 'Scientific Study Conclusion,' may be based on a single study and lacks the comprehensive nature and validation that theories possess.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that play a crucial role in regulating metabolism. One of the key hormones produced by the thyroid gland is thyroxine, which directly influences the body's metabolic rate. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland. The adrenal gland produces hormones like adrenaline, which are associated with the stress response and not primarily metabolic regulation. The pituitary gland regulates various other hormones but is not primarily responsible for metabolic regulation. The liver has a role in metabolism, mainly in processes like detoxification and nutrient storage, but it is not a gland that primarily produces hormones for metabolic regulation, making it an incorrect choice in this context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ball-and-socket joint. A ball-and-socket joint, like the ones found at the shoulder and hip, allows for a wide range of motion. These joints provide multidirectional movement due to the rounded end of one bone fitting into the cup-like socket of another bone, enabling flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. Choice A, Hinge joint, is incorrect because hinge joints allow movement in one plane, like a door hinge, and do not provide the wide range of motion seen at the shoulder and hip. Choice C, Pivot joint, is incorrect because pivot joints allow rotation around a single axis, such as the neck, and do not provide the same range of motion as ball-and-socket joints. Choice D, Saddle joint, is incorrect as saddle joints allow movement in multiple directions but are not as versatile or allow as wide a range of motion as ball-and-socket joints.