Digestive System - Anatomy & Physiology Flashcards
(40 cards)
What are the four main processes of the digestive system?
- Ingestion
- Digestion
- Absorption
- Elimination
These processes are essential for nutrient acquisition and waste removal.
What are the two main parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract?
- Stomach
- Intestines
The GI tract is often referred to as the digestive system.
What is the function of the mucosa in the alimentary canal?
- Secretes gastric juices
- Absorbs nutrients
- Protects tissue through secretion of mucus
The mucosa is the inner tunic of the alimentary canal.
What is peristalsis?
The contraction and relaxation of muscles to move food through the digestive tract
It is essential for the movement of the bolus from the esophagus to the stomach.
What is the role of the serosa in the digestive system?
The outer layer that emits slippery fluid to counteract friction
It is called adventitia when outside the peritoneal cavity.
What are the three main parts of the pharynx?
- Nasopharynx
- Oropharynx
- Hypopharynx
Each part connects different cavities and serves specific functions in digestion and respiration.
What is the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)?
Regulates the entry of food into the stomach
Also known as the gastroesophageal sphincter or cardiac sphincter
Fill in the blank: The stomach is an _______ vessel between the esophagus and small intestine.
[expandable saclike]
What are the three main sections of the stomach?
- Fundus
- Corporis (body)
- Pylorus
Each section has distinct anatomical and functional characteristics.
What is chyme?
A mixture of food and gastric juices in the stomach
Chyme is held in the stomach until the small intestine is ready to accept it.
What is the primary function of the small intestine?
Digestion and absorption of nutrients
It receives chyme from the stomach and continues the digestive process.
What are villi?
Tiny projections in the small intestine that absorb nutrients
Villi are part of the plicae circulares that increase surface area for absorption.
What is the role of the liver in digestion?
Forms bile to emulsify fats
Bile is essential for the mechanical breakdown of fats.
What is the vermiform appendix?
A wormlike appendage attached to the cecum
It has no known digestive function but may play a role in immune defense.
What is the main purpose of the large intestine?
Eliminates waste products from the body
The large intestine also synthesizes some vitamins.
What is the term for the process of releasing feces from the body?
Defecation
This process involves both involuntary and voluntary muscles.
What are the three types of papillae on the tongue?
- Filiform
- Fungiform
- Circumvallate
Each type has distinct functions related to taste and texture.
What is the function of the tonsils?
Protective function against pathogens entering via the mouth
They are lymphatic tissues located at the base of the tongue.
What is the function of salivary glands?
Produce saliva to aid in mastication and chemical digestion
Saliva begins the breakdown of starches with enzymes like amylase.
What is the process called that involves the voluntary external sphincter?
Defecation or BM (bowel movement)
The external sphincter allows for the voluntary control of bowel movements.
What are accessory organs in the gastrointestinal tract referred to as?
Adnexa
Adnexa secrete fluids into the GI tract but are not directly part of the tube itself.
What is the function of bile?
Emulsifies fats
Bile is produced by the liver and aids in the mechanical breakdown of fats.
What waste product is formed by the breakdown of hemoglobin?
Bilirubin
Bilirubin is a waste product that is part of the composition of bile.
What fatty substance is found only in animal tissues?
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is one of the components of bile produced by the liver.
