Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Test with focused study methods including flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Practice with hints and detailed explanations to boost your readiness for the exam.

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What is the primary waste product of metabolism?

Water
Oxygen
Carbon Dioxide
Urea

The correct answer is: Carbon Dioxide

The primary waste product of metabolism is carbon dioxide. During cellular respiration, glucose is broken down to produce energy, and this process generates carbon dioxide as a byproduct. The body must then remove this carbon dioxide to maintain homeostasis and prevent acid-base imbalances. While water is also produced during metabolism, it is not considered a waste product because the body needs water for various physiological functions. Oxygen is a vital component required by cells for the metabolism of glucose; it is consumed rather than produced as a waste. Urea, produced by the liver during the breakdown of proteins, is indeed a waste product, but it is specifically linked to protein metabolism rather than being the primary waste product of general metabolic processes. Thus, carbon dioxide is correctly identified as the primary waste product resulting from metabolism.