CLEP Biology Vertebrate Organ Systems 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which structure in the kidney is responsible for the initial filtration of blood?
- Loop of Henle
- Glomerulus (Correct answer)
- Collecting duct
- Distal convoluted tubule
Correct answer: Glomerulus
The glomerulus is a capillary network in the Bowman's capsule where blood is filtered under pressure.
Question 2: What is the primary function of the sinoatrial (SA) node in the heart?
- Pumping blood to the lungs
- Initiating the electrical impulse that sets heart rate (Correct answer)
- Preventing backflow of blood
- Regulating blood pressure
Correct answer: Initiating the electrical impulse that sets heart rate
The SA node, located in the right atrium, generates the electrical impulses that initiate each heartbeat.
Question 3: In the vertebrate digestive system, where does most chemical digestion and nutrient absorption occur?
- Stomach
- Large intestine
- Small intestine (Correct answer)
- Esophagus
Correct answer: Small intestine
The small intestine is the primary site of enzymatic digestion and nutrient absorption, aided by villi and microvilli.
Question 4: Which hormone is produced by the adrenal medulla in response to stress?
- Cortisol
- Aldosterone
- Epinephrine (Correct answer)
- Insulin
Correct answer: Epinephrine
Epinephrine (adrenaline) is secreted by the adrenal medulla and triggers the fight-or-flight response.
Question 5: What type of muscle tissue is found in the walls of blood vessels?
- Skeletal muscle
- Cardiac muscle
- Smooth muscle (Correct answer)
- Striated muscle
Correct answer: Smooth muscle
Smooth muscle lines blood vessel walls and controls vessel diameter through involuntary contractions.
Question 6: Which part of the brain controls basic life functions such as breathing and heart rate?
- Cerebrum
- Cerebellum
- Medulla oblongata (Correct answer)
- Thalamus
Correct answer: Medulla oblongata
The medulla oblongata regulates autonomic functions including breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Question 7: What is the role of erythropoietin (EPO) in the vertebrate body?
- Stimulates white blood cell production
- Stimulates red blood cell production (Correct answer)
- Regulates blood glucose levels
- Controls blood pressure
Correct answer: Stimulates red blood cell production
Erythropoietin is a hormone produced mainly by the kidneys that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.
CLEP Biology Vertebrate Organ Systems 2
Which structure in the kidney is responsible for the initial filtration of blood?