HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Exam (2025/2026) – 100% Verified Questions with Correct Answer Keys & Expert Explanations

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HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology
Exam (2025/2026) – 100% Verified
Questions with Correct Answer Keys
& Expert Explanations
This practice exam contains 100 multiple-choice questions designed to prepare you for the HESI
A2 Anatomy and Physiology section. Each question includes four answer options, with the
correct answer highlighted in yellow. A brief rationale in red explains the correct answer.



Question 1

Which structure is primarily responsible for gas exchange in the respiratory system?
A) Trachea
B) Bronchi
C) Alveoli
D) Diaphragm
Rationale: Alveoli are tiny air sacs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between the
lungs and bloodstream.

Question 2

What is the primary function of the cerebellum?
A) Regulate heart rate
B) Coordinate balance and movement
C) Control hunger
D) Process visual information
Rationale: The cerebellum coordinates voluntary movements and maintains balance and posture.

Question 3

Which bone forms the upper arm?
A) Radius
B) Humerus
C) Ulna
D) Scapula
Rationale: The humerus is the single bone of the upper arm, connecting the shoulder to the
elbow.

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Question 4

What is the role of the nephrons in the kidneys?
A) Produce bile
B) Store urine
C) Filter blood and form urine
D) Regulate blood sugar
Rationale: Nephrons filter blood, reabsorb essential substances, and excrete waste as urine.

Question 5

Which muscle type is under voluntary control?
A) Cardiac
B) Smooth
C) Skeletal
D) Involuntary
Rationale: Skeletal muscles are voluntary, controlled by the somatic nervous system for
movement.

Question 6

What is the primary source of energy for the body’s cells?
A) Proteins
B) Glucose
C) Lipids
D) Vitamins
Rationale: Glucose is the primary energy source, broken down during cellular respiration to
produce ATP.

Question 7

Which structure connects bones to bones?
A) Tendon
B) Ligament
C) Cartilage
D) Meniscus
Rationale: Ligaments are strong connective tissues that stabilize joints by connecting bones.

Question 8

What is the function of the pancreas in digestion?
A) Stores bile
B) Absorbs nutrients
C) Produces digestive enzymes
D) Neutralizes stomach acid

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Rationale: The pancreas secretes enzymes like amylase and lipase to break down carbohydrates,
proteins, and fats.

Question 9

Which chamber of the heart pumps oxygenated blood into the aorta?
A) Right atrium
B) Right ventricle
C) Left ventricle
D) Left atrium
Rationale: The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood into the aorta for systemic circulation.

Question 10

What is the primary function of red blood cells?
A) Fight infection
B) Transport oxygen
C) Clot blood
D) Produce antibodies
Rationale: Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which binds and transports oxygen to tissues.

Question 11

Which hormone regulates blood sugar levels?
A) Thyroxine
B) Insulin
C) Cortisol
D) Epinephrine
Rationale: Insulin, produced by the pancreas, lowers blood glucose by promoting cellular
uptake.

Question 12

What is the role of the epiglottis?
A) Produce mucus
B) Prevent food from entering the trachea
C) Filter air
D) Warm inhaled air
Rationale: The epiglottis closes the airway during swallowing to prevent aspiration.

Question 13

Which part of the brain regulates vital functions like heart rate and breathing?
A) Cerebrum
B) Cerebellum
C) Medulla oblongata