Physiology II with Lab | Portage Learning | Q & A | 2026/2027
Edition (PDF)
1. Which of the following best describes the primary function of the nervous system?
A) To filter waste products from the blood
B) To provide structural support for the body
C) To receive, process, and respond to internal and external stimuli
D) To produce hormones that regulate metabolism
Correct Answer: To receive, process, and respond to internal and external stimuli
Rationale: The nervous system is the body's primary control and communication center. It receives
sensory input, integrates that information, and then produces a motor or glandular response. While the
endocrine system also communicates via hormones, the nervous system provides rapid, targeted
responses.
2. What is the name of the outermost layer of the meninges?
A) Pia mater
B) Arachnoid mater
C) Dura mater
D) Subarachnoid space
Correct Answer: Dura mater
Rationale: The meninges are three protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. The dura
mater is the toughest and outermost layer. The arachnoid mater is the middle layer, and the pia mater is
the delicate innermost layer that is tightly attached to the brain.
3. Which of the following structures is responsible for the production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?
A) Arachnoid villi
,B) Choroid plexus
C) Cerebral aqueduct
D) Dural sinuses
Correct Answer: Choroid plexus
Rationale: CSF is produced by the choroid plexus, a network of specialized capillaries located within the
ventricles of the brain. It circulates through the ventricles and subarachnoid space, providing cushioning
and nutrients for the central nervous system.
4. Which cranial nerve is responsible for the sense of smell?
A) Cranial nerve I (Olfactory)
B) Cranial nerve II (Optic)
C) Cranial nerve III (Oculomotor)
D) Cranial nerve IV (Trochlear)
Correct Answer: Cranial nerve I (Olfactory)
Rationale: The olfactory nerve (CN I) is a purely sensory nerve responsible for the sense of smell. It
transmits sensory information from the nasal epithelium to the olfactory bulb in the brain.
5. A patient presents with blindness in the right eye only. Which part of the visual pathway is most likely
damaged?
A) Right optic nerve
B) Left optic nerve
C) Optic chiasm
D) Left optic tract
Correct Answer: Right optic nerve
, Rationale: Damage to the right optic nerve, before the optic chiasm, will result in blindness in the right
eye only. The optic chiasm is where some fibers cross; damage here or to the optic tracts causes visual
field defects in both eyes.
6. What is the primary function of the lens in the eye?
A) To regulate the amount of light entering the eye
B) To focus light onto the retina
C) To produce tears to lubricate the eye
D) To detect color and fine detail
Correct Answer: To focus light onto the retina
Rationale: The lens is a transparent, biconvex structure that adjusts its shape to precisely focus light
onto the retina. This process, called accommodation, allows for clear vision at various distances.
7. Which type of photoreceptor is responsible for color vision and visual acuity?
A) Rods
B) Cones
C) Bipolar cells
D) Ganglion cells
Correct Answer: Cones
Rationale: Cones are photoreceptor cells that are responsible for color vision and high visual acuity. They
function best in bright light conditions. Rods are more sensitive to light and are responsible for vision in
dim light.
8. The ossicles of the middle ear are located in which bone?
A) Sphenoid bone
B) Temporal bone