Digestive System Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is the primary function of the mouth in the digestive system?
To mechanically break down food and mix it with saliva.
True or False: The esophagus is responsible for the absorption of nutrients.
False
Fill in the blank: The __________ is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach.
esophagus
What role does the stomach play in digestion?
It chemically and mechanically breaks down food using gastric juices.
What is the function of the small intestine?
To absorb nutrients and minerals from food.
Multiple Choice: Which part of the digestive system is primarily involved in water absorption?
Colon (Large Intestine)
What enzyme is activated in the stomach to aid in protein digestion?
Pepsin
True or False: The liver produces bile, which helps in the digestion of fats.
True
What is the main function of the pancreas in digestion?
To produce digestive enzymes and bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid.
Fill in the blank: The __________ stores bile produced by the liver until it is needed for digestion.
gallbladder
What is the primary role of the large intestine?
To absorb water and electrolytes and form waste products.
True or False: The rectum is the final section of the small intestine.
False
What is the function of saliva in the digestive process?
To begin the digestion of carbohydrates and lubricate food for swallowing.
Multiple Choice: Which organ is responsible for detoxifying chemicals and metabolizing drugs?
Liver
What is the role of intestinal villi in the small intestine?
To increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is a part of the digestive system that absorbs nutrients and is about 20 feet long.
small intestine
What does the term ‘peristalsis’ refer to?
The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.
True or False: The stomach has a higher pH than the small intestine.
False
What substance neutralizes stomach acid in the small intestine?
Bicarbonate
What is the significance of fiber in the diet concerning the digestive system?
It aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.
Fill in the blank: The __________ is where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs.
small intestine
What is the role of the gallbladder in digestion?
To store and concentrate bile.
True or False: The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine gland.
True
What is one function of the stomach’s acid?
To kill bacteria and provide an acidic environment for enzymes.
