OEC Anatomy, Physiology & Medical Terminology

Question 1

Which structure covers the opening of the trachea during swallowing to keep food and liquid out of the airway?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Answer

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage that folds over the glottis during swallowing and so protects the lower airway from aspiration.

Question 2

Where does gas exchange between inhaled air and the blood take place?

Accepted Answer

Alveoli

Answer

Alveoli are tiny air sacs surrounded by capillaries. Oxygen diffuses into the blood and carbon dioxide diffuses out across their thin walls.

Question 3

In anatomical terms, 'distal' describes a location that is:

Accepted Answer

Farther from the trunk or point of attachment

Answer

Distal means farther from the trunk or point of attachment of a limb. The wrist, for example, is distal to the elbow. Proximal is the opposite.

Question 4

Which two structures make up the central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Brain and spinal cord

Answer

The central nervous system is the brain and spinal cord. Cranial and spinal nerves belong to the peripheral nervous system.

Question 5

Which chamber of the heart receives deoxygenated blood returning from the body through the vena cava?

Accepted Answer

Right atrium

Answer

Deoxygenated blood returns via the superior and inferior vena cava to the right atrium. It then passes to the right ventricle and on to the lungs.

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