HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Transverse. A transverse plane, also known as a horizontal plane, divides the body into upper (superior) and lower (inferior) portions. This plane would be used to separate the abdominal cavity from the thoracic cavity because it runs horizontally across the body at the level of the diaphragm, which separates these two cavities. The other choices are incorrect because: A: Sagittal plane divides the body into left and right portions. C: Frontal plane divides the body into front (anterior) and back (posterior) portions. D: Coronal plane is not a recognized anatomical term and is often used interchangeably with frontal plane.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: An injury to the parietal lobe can impact perception because this lobe is responsible for processing sensory information such as touch, spatial awareness, and interpreting the environment. Damage to the parietal lobe can result in difficulties in recognizing objects, understanding spatial relationships, and integrating sensory information. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the parietal lobe is not directly involved in regulating breathing, attention, or memory functions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Smooth muscles are involved in peristalsis as they are found in the walls of the digestive tract and exhibit rhythmic contractions to propel food along the digestive system. Smooth muscles are involuntary, allowing for automatic control of peristalsis without conscious effort. Cardiac muscles (B) are found in the heart and are responsible for pumping blood, not peristalsis. Skeletal muscles (C) are voluntary and are not directly involved in peristalsis. Epaxial muscles (D) are a specific group of skeletal muscles located along the vertebral column and are not involved in peristalsis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: superior. The skull is positioned superior to the spinal cord because it is located above the spinal cord in the anatomical position. Superior indicates a structure is positioned higher in the body. The skull is superior to the spinal cord as it sits on top of the vertebral column. A: anterior is incorrect as the skull is not located in front of the spinal cord. B: posterior is incorrect as the skull is not located behind the spinal cord. C: lateral is incorrect as the skull is not situated to the side of the spinal cord.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Lactase. Lactase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose. This process is essential for individuals to digest lactose found in milk and dairy products. Catalase (A) breaks down hydrogen peroxide, Lipase (B) breaks down fats, and Protease (C) breaks down proteins, none of which are involved in lactose digestion. Therefore, the correct choice is D as it specifically targets lactose breakdown.