The Digestive System Flashcards
Alimentary Canal
Also known as the gastrointestinal tract, it is the long tube of organs that runs from the mouth to the anus, where digestion and absorption of food occur.
Ingestion
The process of taking food, liquids, or other substances into the body through the mouth.
Propulsion
The movement of food through the digestive system, which includes swallowing, peristalsis, and segmentation.
Bolus
A mass of chewed food mixed with saliva that is ready to be swallowed.
Peristalsis
The rhythmic contractions of muscles in the walls of the digestive organs that propels food and waste products through the digestive system.
Salivary Glands
Glands in the mouth that produce saliva, which contains enzymes that begin the process of digestion.
Epiglottis
A flap of tissue at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the windpipe during swallowing, preventing food from entering the lungs.
Gastric Secretory Glands
Glands in the stomach lining that secrete gastric juices containing hydrochloric acid and enzymes to aid in digestion.
Chyme
The semi-liquid mixture of partially digested food and gastric juices that moves from the stomach to the small intestine during digestion.
Bile
A digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder that helps break down fats in the small intestine.
Bile Duct
A tube that carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine.
Segmentation
The mixing movement of the small intestine that helps to break down food and mix it with digestive juices.
Mesentery
A fold of tissue that attaches organs to the abdominal wall and provides support and a pathway for blood vessels and nerves.
Enteric Nervous System
The network of neurons that regulates the function of the gastrointestinal system, controlling digestion, secretion, and peristalsis.
