Question 1

Which of the following best describes the mechanistic approach to explaining physiological processes?

Accepted Answer

It focuses on the underlying physical and chemical processes that cause a function.

Question 2

A patient with Tay-Sachs disease has a genetic defect affecting which cellular organelle, and what is the primary consequence?

Accepted Answer

Lysosome; accumulation of undigested lipids

Question 3

Which of the following statements about the Na+/K+ pump is correct?

Accepted Answer

It helps maintain the resting membrane potential by moving Na+ out and K+ into the cell.

Question 4

A solution has a hydrogen ion concentration of $$1 	imes 10$$^{-5}$$ M. What is its pH?

Accepted Answer

$$5$$

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the all-or-none principle of action potentials?

Accepted Answer

An action potential will only occur if the membrane potential reaches threshold; otherwise, it does not occur at all.

Question 6

Which hormone is secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreas, and what is its primary function during the fasted state?

Accepted Answer

Glucagon; stimulates glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis

Question 7

A patient presents with muscle weakness and confusion. Laboratory results show low extracellular sodium and high intracellular potassium. Which process is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Function of the Na+/K+ ATPase pump

Question 8

Which of the following is a peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland?

Accepted Answer

Growth hormone

Question 9

During inspiration, which of the following occurs in the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm contracts, thoracic volume increases, and intrapulmonary pressure decreases.

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why surfactant is essential for normal lung function?

Accepted Answer

It reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse during expiration.

Question 11

Which of the following is true regarding the difference between nuclei and ganglia?

Accepted Answer

Nuclei are clusters of neuron cell bodies in the central nervous system, while ganglia are in the peripheral nervous system.

Question 12

A patient with hyperthyroidism is likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Weight loss, heat intolerance, and tachycardia

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the process of gluconeogenesis?

Accepted Answer

The synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the pathway of light entering the eye?

Accepted Answer

Cornea → Pupil → Lens → Retina

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of erythropoietin?

Accepted Answer

Stimulates red blood cell production in response to hypoxia

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about the resting membrane potential of a neuron?

Accepted Answer

It is typically around $$-70 mV$$, with the inside of the cell negative relative to the outside.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the difference between exocrine and endocrine glands?

Accepted Answer

Exocrine glands secrete products into ducts, while endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the blood.

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of platelets in the blood?

Accepted Answer

Initiating the clotting process by forming a platelet plug

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of the Golgi apparatus in protein synthesis?

Accepted Answer

It modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Question 20

Which of the following is a correct statement about the phases of the neuronal action potential?

Accepted Answer

During repolarization, voltage-gated Na+ channels close and K+ channels open, allowing K+ efflux.

Human Physiology 261: Comprehensive Midterm Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards