Digestive system basics

Front

What is the primary function of the digestive system?

Back

To break down food into nutrients that the body can absorb and use.

Front

What part of the digestive system is responsible for the initial mechanical breakdown of food?

Back

Mouth.

Front

What role do the teeth play in digestion?

Back

They break food into smaller pieces to facilitate swallowing and digestion.

Front

What is the esophagus?

Back

A muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach, transporting food.

Front

What is the function of the stomach in the digestive process?

Back

To mix food with digestive juices and break it down into a semi-liquid form.

Front

What is the small intestine's role in digestion?

Back

To absorb nutrients from digested food into the bloodstream.

Front

What is bile and where is it produced?

Back

Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps emulsify fats.

Front

What is the large intestine's primary function?

Back

To absorb water and electrolytes from indigestible food matter and to store waste.

Front

What is peristalsis?

Back

The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Front

What are enzymes and their role in digestion?

Back

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the breakdown of food into nutrients.