Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the sodium-potassium pump ($$Na^+/K^+$$ ATPase) in human physiology?

Accepted Answer

To maintain the resting membrane potential by actively transporting $$3\ Na^+$$ ions out and $$2\ K^+$$ ions into the cell using ATP

Question 2

A patient presents with muscle weakness and irregular heartbeat. Laboratory results show low serum potassium levels. Which physiological process is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Generation of action potentials due to decreased $$K^+$$ gradient across the cell membrane

Question 3

Which of the following equations correctly represents the calculation of mean arterial pressure (MAP)?

Accepted Answer

$$MAP = Diastolic\ Pressure + \frac{1}{3}(Systolic\ Pressure - Diastolic\ Pressure)$$

Question 4

During a laboratory experiment, a student observes that the addition of acetylcholine to a heart tissue sample decreases the heart rate. Which branch of the autonomic nervous system is being stimulated?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic nervous system

Question 5

A patient is unable to regulate their body temperature after suffering a brain injury. Which region of the brain is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Hypothalamus

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why red blood cells placed in a hypotonic solution will swell and potentially burst?

Accepted Answer

Water moves into the cells by osmosis due to a lower solute concentration outside

Question 7

Which hormone is primarily responsible for increasing blood glucose levels during periods of fasting?

Accepted Answer

Glucagon

Question 8

A patient with chronic kidney disease is unable to adequately regulate the pH of their blood. Which physiological process is most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Excretion of hydrogen ions ($$H^+) $$and reabsorption of bicarbonate ($$HCO_3$$^-$$)

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the Frank-Starling law of the heart?

Accepted Answer

The greater the end-diastolic volume, the greater the force of contraction and stroke volume

Question 10

A person inhales deeply and holds their breath. Which of the following changes would you expect in their blood gases?

Accepted Answer

Increase in $$CO_2$$ and decrease in pH

Question 11

Which of the following is the correct sequence of events in the generation of an action potential in a neuron?

Accepted Answer

Depolarization, repolarization, hyperpolarization

Question 12

A patient is experiencing excessive urination and dehydration due to a deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Which part of the nephron is most affected?

Accepted Answer

Collecting duct

Question 13

Which of the following best explains the role of surfactant in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

It decreases the surface tension of alveolar fluid, preventing alveolar collapse during exhalation

Question 14

A patient with damage to the left primary motor cortex will most likely experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Paralysis of voluntary movements on the right side of the body

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the relationship between cardiac output (CO), heart rate (HR), and stroke volume (SV)?

Accepted Answer

$$CO = HR 	imes SV$$

Question 16

A patient is given a drug that blocks voltage-gated calcium channels in the presynaptic terminal of a neuron. What is the most likely effect on synaptic transmission?

Accepted Answer

Decreased release of neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of aldosterone in the regulation of blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

It increases sodium reabsorption in the distal tubule, leading to increased water retention and blood pressure

Question 18

A patient with a spinal cord injury at the level of T6 is unable to feel sensations below the level of injury. Which type of neuron is most likely disrupted?

Accepted Answer

Afferent (sensory) neurons ascending to the brain

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why a person with type 1 diabetes mellitus is at risk for ketoacidosis?

Accepted Answer

Lack of insulin causes increased fat breakdown, resulting in accumulation of ketone bodies

PHY202L Human Physiology Lab – Syllabus & Core Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards