ATI TEAS 7 Advanced Prep: Master Anatomy, Physiology,
& Scientific Reasoning Practice Questions
Subject: ATI TEAS 7 - Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Scientific Reasoning
Question 1: Which of the following best describes the structural relationship between the
sarcomere and the sarcoplasmic reticulum during the excitation-contraction coupling process in
skeletal muscle?
A) The sarcoplasmic reticulum releases calcium ions into the sarcoplasm following
depolarization of the T-tubules.
B) The sarcomere shortens as the sarcoplasmic reticulum actively absorbs calcium from the
myofibril.
C) The T-tubules store calcium, which is released directly onto the thin filaments to initiate
cross-bridge formation.
D) The sarcoplasmic reticulum binds to the Z-disk to physically shorten the H-zone during
contraction.
Correct Answer: A) The sarcoplasmic reticulum releases calcium ions into the sarcoplasm
following depolarization of the T-tubules.
Explanation: Excitation-contraction coupling begins when an action potential travels down the
T-tubules, triggering the voltage-gated calcium channels in the sarcoplasmic reticulum to open.
The resulting efflux of calcium ions into the sarcoplasm binds to troponin, allowing myosin-
binding sites on actin to be exposed. Option B is incorrect because calcium absorption
(sequestration) into the SR leads to relaxation, not contraction. Option C is incorrect because T-
tubules transmit signals but do not store calcium.
Question 2: In the feedback mechanism regulating blood glucose, which of the following is an
accurate physiological response to a significant decrease in plasma glucose concentration?
A) The pancreas releases insulin, and the liver increases glycogenesis.
B) The alpha cells of the pancreatic islets release glucagon to stimulate glycogenolysis in the
liver.
C) The liver decreases gluconeogenesis to prevent excessive blood acidity.
D) The adrenal cortex releases epinephrine to inhibit glucose uptake by skeletal muscle.
Correct Answer: B) The alpha cells of the pancreatic islets release glucagon to stimulate
glycogenolysis in the liver.
,Explanation: When blood glucose drops, alpha cells in the pancreas detect the change and
secrete glucagon. Glucagon targets hepatocytes to initiate glycogenolysis (breakdown of
glycogen into glucose) and gluconeogenesis (synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate
sources), raising blood glucose. Option A describes the response to hyperglycemia. Option C is
incorrect because gluconeogenesis is upregulated during hypoglycemia.
Question 3: Which of the following correctly traces the path of filtered fluid through the nephron
in the human kidney?
A) Bowman's capsule → distal convoluted tubule → loop of Henle → proximal convoluted
tubule → collecting duct.
B) Glomerulus → proximal convoluted tubule → loop of Henle → distal convoluted tubule →
collecting duct.
C) Afferent arteriole → loop of Henle → Bowman's capsule → proximal convoluted tubule →
distal convoluted tubule.
D) Bowman's capsule → proximal convoluted tubule → distal convoluted tubule → loop of
Henle → collecting duct.
Correct Answer: B) Glomerulus → proximal convoluted tubule → loop of Henle → distal
convoluted tubule → collecting duct.
Explanation: The filtrate originates at the glomerular capillary bed, enters Bowman's capsule,
and proceeds through the nephron segments in a specific order: Proximal Convoluted Tubule
(PCT), Loop of Henle, Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT), and finally the Collecting Duct. Option
A and D misorder the segments, while option C confuses the vascular inflow with the tubular
outflow.
Question 4: During the cardiac cycle, which of the following events corresponds exactly to the
closing of the atrioventricular (AV) valves?
A) The beginning of ventricular diastole.
B) The start of ventricular systole as pressure exceeds atrial pressure.
C) The end of ventricular ejection.
D) The opening of the semilunar valves.
Correct Answer: B) The start of ventricular systole as pressure exceeds atrial pressure.
Explanation: As the ventricles begin to contract (ventricular systole), the pressure inside the
ventricle rapidly exceeds the pressure in the atria, forcing the AV valves (mitral and tricuspid)
,shut to prevent backflow. This corresponds to the "lub" sound. Semilunar valves open later, once
ventricular pressure exceeds aortic/pulmonary arterial pressure.
Question 5: A researcher is testing the effects of a novel enzyme on protein digestion in the
stomach. The enzyme shows peak activity at pH 2.0 and is completely denatured at pH 7.0. What
is the most likely conclusion?
A) This enzyme is likely an intracellular enzyme found in the cytosol.
B) This enzyme is likely an analog of pepsin, adapted for the acidic environment of the stomach.
C) This enzyme functions best in the alkaline environment of the small intestine.
D) This enzyme is a lipase that requires bile salts for activity.
Correct Answer: B) This enzyme is likely an analog of pepsin, adapted for the acidic
environment of the stomach.
Explanation: Gastric enzymes, such as pepsin, are specifically adapted to function optimally in
the highly acidic (low pH) environment created by hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Denaturation at neutral pH (7.0) indicates the enzyme is unstable outside of its acidic niche.
Intracellular enzymes (Option A) usually function at near-neutral physiological pH.
Question 6: Which of the following is a function of the lymphatic system that distinguishes it
from the circulatory system?
A) It returns interstitial fluid and plasma proteins to the bloodstream.
B) It transports deoxygenated blood to the heart.
C) It serves as a primary site for erythropoiesis in adults.
D) It relies on the pumping action of the heart to move lymph.
Correct Answer: A) It returns interstitial fluid and plasma proteins to the bloodstream.
Explanation: The lymphatic system acts as a "drainage" system that collects excess interstitial
fluid (which has leaked out of capillaries) and returns it to the venous circulation. It also
transports dietary fats. It does not pump blood (Option B is incorrect), and does not primarily
perform erythropoiesis (Option C occurs in red bone marrow).
Question 7: Which of the following biological molecules is correctly paired with its primary
monomer?
A) Glycogen: Amino acid
, B) DNA: Nucleotide
C) Protein: Monosaccharide
D) Cellulose: Fatty acid
Correct Answer: B) DNA: Nucleotide
Explanation: DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a polymer made up of nucleotide monomers
(consisting of a sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous base). Glycogen is a carbohydrate made of
glucose monomers; proteins are made of amino acids; cellulose is a polysaccharide made of
glucose.
Question 8: In a reflex arc, which component is responsible for conducting impulses from the
central nervous system to the effector?
A) Sensory neuron
B) Interneuron
C) Motor neuron
D) Receptor
Correct Answer: C) Motor neuron
Explanation: A reflex arc pathway is: Receptor → Sensory Neuron → Interneuron (in CNS) →
Motor Neuron → Effector (muscle or gland). The motor neuron carries the processed command
away from the CNS to initiate a response.
Question 9: Which of the following best describes the effect of the parasympathetic nervous
system on the digestive system?
A) It increases blood flow to the skin and skeletal muscles.
B) It inhibits gastric secretion to conserve metabolic energy.
C) It stimulates the "rest and digest" response, increasing motility and secretion.
D) It causes the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream.
Correct Answer: C) It stimulates the "rest and digest" response, increasing motility and
secretion.
& Scientific Reasoning Practice Questions
Subject: ATI TEAS 7 - Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Scientific Reasoning
Question 1: Which of the following best describes the structural relationship between the
sarcomere and the sarcoplasmic reticulum during the excitation-contraction coupling process in
skeletal muscle?
A) The sarcoplasmic reticulum releases calcium ions into the sarcoplasm following
depolarization of the T-tubules.
B) The sarcomere shortens as the sarcoplasmic reticulum actively absorbs calcium from the
myofibril.
C) The T-tubules store calcium, which is released directly onto the thin filaments to initiate
cross-bridge formation.
D) The sarcoplasmic reticulum binds to the Z-disk to physically shorten the H-zone during
contraction.
Correct Answer: A) The sarcoplasmic reticulum releases calcium ions into the sarcoplasm
following depolarization of the T-tubules.
Explanation: Excitation-contraction coupling begins when an action potential travels down the
T-tubules, triggering the voltage-gated calcium channels in the sarcoplasmic reticulum to open.
The resulting efflux of calcium ions into the sarcoplasm binds to troponin, allowing myosin-
binding sites on actin to be exposed. Option B is incorrect because calcium absorption
(sequestration) into the SR leads to relaxation, not contraction. Option C is incorrect because T-
tubules transmit signals but do not store calcium.
Question 2: In the feedback mechanism regulating blood glucose, which of the following is an
accurate physiological response to a significant decrease in plasma glucose concentration?
A) The pancreas releases insulin, and the liver increases glycogenesis.
B) The alpha cells of the pancreatic islets release glucagon to stimulate glycogenolysis in the
liver.
C) The liver decreases gluconeogenesis to prevent excessive blood acidity.
D) The adrenal cortex releases epinephrine to inhibit glucose uptake by skeletal muscle.
Correct Answer: B) The alpha cells of the pancreatic islets release glucagon to stimulate
glycogenolysis in the liver.
,Explanation: When blood glucose drops, alpha cells in the pancreas detect the change and
secrete glucagon. Glucagon targets hepatocytes to initiate glycogenolysis (breakdown of
glycogen into glucose) and gluconeogenesis (synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate
sources), raising blood glucose. Option A describes the response to hyperglycemia. Option C is
incorrect because gluconeogenesis is upregulated during hypoglycemia.
Question 3: Which of the following correctly traces the path of filtered fluid through the nephron
in the human kidney?
A) Bowman's capsule → distal convoluted tubule → loop of Henle → proximal convoluted
tubule → collecting duct.
B) Glomerulus → proximal convoluted tubule → loop of Henle → distal convoluted tubule →
collecting duct.
C) Afferent arteriole → loop of Henle → Bowman's capsule → proximal convoluted tubule →
distal convoluted tubule.
D) Bowman's capsule → proximal convoluted tubule → distal convoluted tubule → loop of
Henle → collecting duct.
Correct Answer: B) Glomerulus → proximal convoluted tubule → loop of Henle → distal
convoluted tubule → collecting duct.
Explanation: The filtrate originates at the glomerular capillary bed, enters Bowman's capsule,
and proceeds through the nephron segments in a specific order: Proximal Convoluted Tubule
(PCT), Loop of Henle, Distal Convoluted Tubule (DCT), and finally the Collecting Duct. Option
A and D misorder the segments, while option C confuses the vascular inflow with the tubular
outflow.
Question 4: During the cardiac cycle, which of the following events corresponds exactly to the
closing of the atrioventricular (AV) valves?
A) The beginning of ventricular diastole.
B) The start of ventricular systole as pressure exceeds atrial pressure.
C) The end of ventricular ejection.
D) The opening of the semilunar valves.
Correct Answer: B) The start of ventricular systole as pressure exceeds atrial pressure.
Explanation: As the ventricles begin to contract (ventricular systole), the pressure inside the
ventricle rapidly exceeds the pressure in the atria, forcing the AV valves (mitral and tricuspid)
,shut to prevent backflow. This corresponds to the "lub" sound. Semilunar valves open later, once
ventricular pressure exceeds aortic/pulmonary arterial pressure.
Question 5: A researcher is testing the effects of a novel enzyme on protein digestion in the
stomach. The enzyme shows peak activity at pH 2.0 and is completely denatured at pH 7.0. What
is the most likely conclusion?
A) This enzyme is likely an intracellular enzyme found in the cytosol.
B) This enzyme is likely an analog of pepsin, adapted for the acidic environment of the stomach.
C) This enzyme functions best in the alkaline environment of the small intestine.
D) This enzyme is a lipase that requires bile salts for activity.
Correct Answer: B) This enzyme is likely an analog of pepsin, adapted for the acidic
environment of the stomach.
Explanation: Gastric enzymes, such as pepsin, are specifically adapted to function optimally in
the highly acidic (low pH) environment created by hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Denaturation at neutral pH (7.0) indicates the enzyme is unstable outside of its acidic niche.
Intracellular enzymes (Option A) usually function at near-neutral physiological pH.
Question 6: Which of the following is a function of the lymphatic system that distinguishes it
from the circulatory system?
A) It returns interstitial fluid and plasma proteins to the bloodstream.
B) It transports deoxygenated blood to the heart.
C) It serves as a primary site for erythropoiesis in adults.
D) It relies on the pumping action of the heart to move lymph.
Correct Answer: A) It returns interstitial fluid and plasma proteins to the bloodstream.
Explanation: The lymphatic system acts as a "drainage" system that collects excess interstitial
fluid (which has leaked out of capillaries) and returns it to the venous circulation. It also
transports dietary fats. It does not pump blood (Option B is incorrect), and does not primarily
perform erythropoiesis (Option C occurs in red bone marrow).
Question 7: Which of the following biological molecules is correctly paired with its primary
monomer?
A) Glycogen: Amino acid
, B) DNA: Nucleotide
C) Protein: Monosaccharide
D) Cellulose: Fatty acid
Correct Answer: B) DNA: Nucleotide
Explanation: DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a polymer made up of nucleotide monomers
(consisting of a sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous base). Glycogen is a carbohydrate made of
glucose monomers; proteins are made of amino acids; cellulose is a polysaccharide made of
glucose.
Question 8: In a reflex arc, which component is responsible for conducting impulses from the
central nervous system to the effector?
A) Sensory neuron
B) Interneuron
C) Motor neuron
D) Receptor
Correct Answer: C) Motor neuron
Explanation: A reflex arc pathway is: Receptor → Sensory Neuron → Interneuron (in CNS) →
Motor Neuron → Effector (muscle or gland). The motor neuron carries the processed command
away from the CNS to initiate a response.
Question 9: Which of the following best describes the effect of the parasympathetic nervous
system on the digestive system?
A) It increases blood flow to the skin and skeletal muscles.
B) It inhibits gastric secretion to conserve metabolic energy.
C) It stimulates the "rest and digest" response, increasing motility and secretion.
D) It causes the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream.
Correct Answer: C) It stimulates the "rest and digest" response, increasing motility and
secretion.
