Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the plasma membrane in a typical human cell?

Accepted Answer

It regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell.

Question 2

A patient is given an intravenous solution that is isotonic to their blood plasma. What effect will this solution have on the patient's red blood cells?

Accepted Answer

Red blood cells will remain unchanged in size.

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the Nernst equation for calculating the equilibrium potential ($E_{ion}$) of an ion across a membrane?

Accepted Answer

$E_{ion} = \frac{RT}{zF} \ln \left( \frac{[ion]_{out}}{[ion]_{in}} \right)$

Question 4

Which process is responsible for the uptake of large particles, such as bacteria, by a cell?

Accepted Answer

Phagocytosis

Question 5

A neuron receives both excitatory and inhibitory inputs. Which of the following best describes how the neuron decides whether to fire an action potential?

Accepted Answer

It fires an action potential if the membrane potential reaches the threshold due to the net effect of all inputs.

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why myelinated axons conduct action potentials faster than unmyelinated axons?

Accepted Answer

Myelinated axons use saltatory conduction, allowing action potentials to jump between nodes of Ranvier.

Question 7

Which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for stimulating muscle contraction at the neuromuscular junction?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 8

A cell is placed in a hypertonic solution. What will happen to the cell?

Accepted Answer

It will shrink as water leaves the cell.

Question 9

Which of the following is a characteristic of carrier-mediated transport that distinguishes it from simple diffusion?

Accepted Answer

Carrier-mediated transport exhibits saturation kinetics.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the role of the Na$^+$/K$^+$ pump in maintaining the resting membrane potential?

Accepted Answer

It actively transports Na$^+$ out and K$^+$ into the cell, maintaining ionic gradients.

Question 11

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the blood-brain barrier?

Accepted Answer

It restricts the passage of many substances, protecting the brain from toxins.

Question 12

Which of the following equations correctly represents the calculation of osmotic pressure ($\Pi$) according to van't Hoff's law?

Accepted Answer

$\Pi = iMRT$

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the difference between EPSPs and IPSPs?

Accepted Answer

EPSPs depolarize the postsynaptic membrane, while IPSPs hyperpolarize it.

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of astrocytes in the central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They maintain the blood-brain barrier and regulate extracellular ion balance.

Question 15

Which of the following best explains the process of receptor-mediated endocytosis?

Accepted Answer

The cell uses specific receptors to internalize particular molecules.

Question 16

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the propagation of action potentials in myelinated axons?

Accepted Answer

Action potentials jump from one node of Ranvier to the next (saltatory conduction).

Question 17

Which of the following neurotransmitters is inhibitory in the adult central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

GABA

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the pyramidal motor tracts?

Accepted Answer

They control voluntary movements by transmitting impulses from the cerebral cortex to the spinal cord.

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct statement about the equilibrium potential for potassium ($K^+$) in a neuron?

Accepted Answer

It is the membrane potential at which there is no net movement of $K^+$ ions across the membrane.

Physio Exam 1 Study Guide Part 1

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards