The 'Sinoatrial (SA) node' is known as the natural pacemaker of the heart because: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The 'Sinoatrial (SA) node' is known as the natural pacemaker of the heart because:
A. It receives signals from the brain first
B. It generates action potentials spontaneously at the highest intrinsic rate
C. It is located in the ventricles
D. It has the highest threshold for stimulation
Answer: Option B
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
The Sinoatrial (SA) node, located in the right atrium, is the natural pacemaker because its cells are autorhythmic; they can spontaneously generate action potentials without external neural input. Crucially, the SA node has the highest intrinsic rate of depolarization (about 70-80 beats per minute) compared to other autorhythmic tissues like the AV node or Purkinje fibers. Therefore, it sets the pace for the entire heart, overriding slower pacemakers.

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Practice More Biology Questions

Question #1
The hormone that stimulates the synthesis of milk in the mammary glands is:
A. Estrogen
B. Progesterone
C. Oxytocin
D. Prolactin

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Prolactin, secreted by the anterior pituitary, is the primary hormone responsible for milk synthesis (lactation) after childbirth. Oxytocin causes milk ejection (let-down reflex). Estrogen and progesterone stimulate mammary duct and alveolar development during pregnancy but inhibit milk secretion; after delivery, their levels drop, allowing prolactin to act.

This question belongs to: Science Biology
Question #2
Consider statements about human immunity: 1. Skin acts as a physical barrier. 2. White blood cells fight infections. 3. Antibiotics are effective against viruses. Which are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1 and 3 only

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
The skin and mucous membranes form the first line of defense (innate immunity), acting as physical barriers that prevent pathogens from entering the body. White blood cells (leukocytes), including phagocytes and lymphocytes, are the cellular components of the immune system that identify, attack, and destroy pathogens. Antibiotics are drugs designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria; they are completely ineffective against viruses, which lack the cellular machinery targeted by antibiotics. Thus, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

This question belongs to: Science Biology
Question #3
The hormone that stimulates the growth and development of the mammary glands during puberty is:
A. Estrogen
B. Prolactin
C. Oxytocin
D. Progesterone

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Estrogen promotes ductal growth in breasts and deposition of fat, contributing to breast development at puberty. Progesterone develops alveoli, prolactin synthesizes milk, oxytocin ejects milk.

This question belongs to: Science Biology