4- Self-test questions

Question 1

Define pressure.

Answer 1

Force per unit area.

Question 2

What does inversely proportional mean?

Answer 2

An increase in one variable results in a decrease in the other variable; similarly, a decrease in one variable
results in an increase in the other variable.

Question 3

What does directly proportional mean?

Answer 3

An increase in one variable results in an increase in the other variable; similarly, a decrease in one variable
results in a decrease in the other variable.

Question 4

Define cell.

Answer 4

A cell is the smallest functioning unit of life that is capable of independent existence.

Question 5

Describe the general structure and function of the plasma membrane of a cell.

Answer 5

The outermost layer of the cell, the membrane is composed mainly of lipids and proteins; it serves to
separate and protect a cell from its surrounding environment.

Question 6

Cite the special functions that occur within the cytoplasm of a cell.

Answer 6

Cell expansion, growth and replication.

Question 7

Describe the general function of the nucleus.

Answer 7

The nucleus determines how the cell will function, as well as the basic structure of the cell.

Question 8

Explain cell division and why it is important.

Answer 8

It is the process by which new cells are formed for tissue growth, repair, replacement, and maintenance in
the body. This process includes division of the nuclear material and division of the cytoplasm.

Question 9

Define tissue and cite the four major types of tissue found in the human body.

Answer 9

Tissues are groups of cells that have a similar structure and function. The four major types of tissue found
in the body are epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous.

Question 10

What are the functions of epithelial tissue (epithelium)?

Answer 10

(1) Protection.
(2) Secretion.
(3) Absorption.
(4) Excretion.
(5) Filtration.
(6) Diffusion.
(7) Sensory reception.

Question 11

Explain how the structure of connective tissue contributes to its function.

Answer 11

The matrix of connective tissue makes it able to bear weight, withstand great tension, and endure abuses
that other tissue types would not be able to tolerate.

Question 12

Describe the function of muscle tissue.

Answer 12

Muscle tissue has the special ability to shorten or contract in order to produce movement of the body parts.

Question 13

Describe the general structure and function of nervous tissue.

Answer 13

Nervous tissue is found in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It is responsible for coordinating and
controlling many body activities. Nervous tissue is comprised of supporting cells and neurons and is
responsible for coordinating and controlling many body activities.

Question 14

What is the function of the sclera within the eye?

Answer 14

It provides strength to the fluid-filled eyeball.

Question 15

Describe the function of the Eustachian tube within the ear.

Answer 15

It equalizes the air pressure in the ear with that of the atmosphere. If the pressure is not equalized, the
eardrum could burst.

Question 16

Cite the seven functions of skin.

Answer 16

(1) Protects the body from invasion by bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
(2) Helps keep a constant body temperature.
(3) Prevents water loss.
(4) Excretes wastes.
(5) Receives sensations.
(6) Produces a vitamin.
(7) Absorbs certain drugs and other chemical substances.

Question 17

Describe the function of bones within the skeletal system.

Answer 17

Bones provide a rigid framework, which supports and protects the soft organs of the body.

Question 18

Describe the role of vertebrae within the skeletal system.

Answer 18

Vertebrae surround and protect the spinal cord.

Question 19

Cite the two divisions of the skeletal system and describe the structure of each.

Answer 19

(1) The axial skeleton consists of 80 bones that form the vertical axis of the body. They include the bones
of the head, vertebral column, ribs and breastbone (sternum).
(2) The appendicular skeleton consists of 126 bones and includes the free appendages and their
attachments to the axial skeleton. The free appendages are the upper and lower extremities, or limbs,
and their attachments that are called girdles.

Question 20

Describe the function of the synovial membrane within joints.

Answer 20

The synovial membrane secretes synovial fluid into the joint cavity for lubrication.

Question 21

Describe the relationship between the skeletal system and the muscles of the body.

Answer 21

The muscles of the body work with the skeletal system to provide movement and support.

Question 22

Cite the three general, overlapping functions of the nervous system.

Answer 22

(1) Sensory.
(2) Integrative.
(3) Motor.

Question 23

The conducting cell that transmits impulses and the
unit of the nervous system.

Answer 23

Neuron.

Question 24

Nonconducting and provides a support system for
the neurons.

Answer 24

Neuroglia.

Question 25

The conducting region of the neuron.

Answer 25

Axon.

Question 26

Collections of nerve cell bodies outside the central
nervous system.

Answer 26

Ganglia.

Question 27

Transmits impulses from peripheral organs to the
central nervous system.

Answer 27

Sensory division.

Question 28

Transmits impulses from the central nervous
system out to the peripheral organs to cause an
effect or action.

Answer 28

Motor division.

Question 29

Describe the relationship between the nervous system and the endocrine system.

Answer 29

These systems function together in the regulation of body activities.

Question 30

These glands have ducts that carry their secretory
product to a surface.

Answer 30

Exocrine.

Question 31

Ductless glands.

Answer 31

Endocrine.

Question 32

Regulate the metabolic function of other cells in the
body.

Answer 32

hormones

Question 33

Referred to as the body’s master gland.

Answer 33

Pituitary.

Question 34

Receives hormones and act as receptors.

Answer 34

Target cells.

Question 35

Produces the hormone thyroxine.

Answer 35

Thyroid.

Question 36

Secretes digestive enzymes.

Answer 36

Pancreas.

Question 37

Produces the sperm and ova.

Answer 37

Gonads.