Digestive System Flashcards
Describe the general function of the Digestive System.
To change complex organic nutrient molecules into simple organic and inorganic molecules to be absorbed and transported to the cells.
Name the divisions of the digestive system and the organs that comprise them.
Alimentary tube
- oral cavity
- pharynx
- esophagus
- stomach
- small intestine
- large intestine Accessory organs
- teeth
- tongue
- salivary glands
- liver
- bile
- gall bladder
- pancreas
Define the function of the teeth.
Mastication
Explain how the tongue assists with digestion.
It mixes food during chewing, forms it into a bolus, and initiates swallowing.
Explain the function of salivary glands.
Moistens and aids compaction into a bolus and contains enzymes to breakdown starchy foods.
Explain the function of bile and state where it is stored.
Bile is stored in the liver and gall bladder. Contains acids for digestion and absorption in the small intestine. Contains many waste products from the body.
What role does the pancreas play in digestion?
Aids in acid reduction of chyme as it travels from the stomach to the small intestine. Helps break down proteins, fats, and starch to be absorbed.
Define mechanical digestion.
The physical breaking up of food into smaller pieces.
Define chemical digestion.
The use of enzymes to break down complex chemical molecules into simpler chemicals that can be utilized by the body.
Define deciduous teeth.
baby teeth, 20
How many permanent teeth are there?
32
List the parts of a tooth and their location.
- Crown - visible part of tooth above the gingiva
- Enamel - outer part of the crown, hardest part of the body
- Dentin - inside the enamel and root, similar to bone
- Pulp cavity - innermost part of tooth containing blood vessels and nerves
- Periodontal membrane - lines the tooth socket and anchors the tooth
Explain the function of saliva.
- cleans teeth
- dissolves food chemicals so they can be tasted
- moistens food to aid in bolus formation
- contains enzymes to breakdown starchy foods
Explain the function of the pharynx in digestion.
Its only function is swallowing.
Explain the function fo the esophagus in digestion.
It takes food from the pharynx to the stomach.
State the location and function of the lower esophageal sphincter.
Located at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach. Opens to allow food into the stomach then closes to keep stomach contents out of the esophagus.
State the functions of mucosa of the alimentary canal.
- secretion of mucus
- absorption of nutrients
- protection against disease
State the functions of submucosa of the alimentary canal.
- supplies surrounding tissue with blood and lymphatic vessels
- regulates secretions
State the functions of the external muscle layer of the alimentary canal.
- propel and mix food along the digestive tract
* forms sphincters that act as valves to prevent backflow
Define the serosa of the alimentary canal.
The outermost layer of the alimentary canal. Also called the visceral peritoneum.
List the parts of the stomach.
- lower esophageal sphincter
- fundus
- body
- pylorus
- pyloric sphincter
- contains rugae
Define rugae.
Folds in the stomach that allow for expansion.
State the general function of the stomach.
A sac that extends from the esophagus to the small intestines. Serves a reservoir for food. Both mechanical and chemical digestion occur in the pylorus.
Define gastric pits.
glands in the stomach that secrete gastric juice
