Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which of the following is a function of the liver?

1. Storage of oxygen

2. Production of bile

3. Regulation of body temperature

4. Absorption of nutrients

The correct answer is: Production of bile

The liver plays a crucial role in the digestive system and overall metabolism, and one of its primary functions is the production of bile. Bile is a greenish fluid that is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. It aids in emulsifying fats, allowing for better breakdown and absorption of fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. Additionally, bile serves as a means to eliminate waste products, particularly the breakdown products of hemoglobin. In contrast, the other choices refer to functions not performed by the liver. The storage of oxygen is primarily the role of hemoglobin in red blood cells rather than the liver. Regulation of body temperature is mainly handled by the hypothalamus in the brain, not the liver. Meanwhile, absorption of nutrients primarily occurs in the intestines, particularly in the small intestine, rather than the liver itself, although the liver does play a role in processing these nutrients after they have been absorbed. Thus, the production of bile is the most accurate response regarding liver functions.