Biology STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

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What function do the tonsils serve in the lymphatic system?

  1. Regulation of blood pressure

  2. Filtration of waste

  3. Protection against pathogens

  4. Transportation of oxygen

The correct answer is: Protection against pathogens

The tonsils are a key component of the lymphatic system, primarily serving the function of protection against pathogens. Located at the back of the throat, tonsils are lymphoid tissues that help form a first line of defense in the immune system. They play a crucial role in recognizing and responding to infections. The tonsils trap and filter out bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose, preventing them from causing illness. This is particularly important during childhood when the immune system is still developing. The other options, while important functions in biology, do not accurately describe the role of the tonsils. Regulation of blood pressure is typically associated with the cardiovascular system, and filtration of waste is generally related to the kidneys. The transportation of oxygen is primarily the function of red blood cells in the circulatory system. Therefore, the unique role of the tonsils in serving as a protective barrier against pathogens is what makes their function vital to the immune response.