Human Digestive System

Front

What is the esophagus?

Back

A muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.

Front

What is the function of the epiglottis?

Back

To prevent food from entering the windpipe during swallowing.

Front

What are amino acids?

Back

The building blocks of proteins, formed when large proteins are chemically digested.

Front

What is peristalsis?

Back

Involuntary muscular contractions that move food along the digestive system.

Front

Where does peristalsis start?

Back

In the esophagus.

Front

What is the role of the stomach in digestion?

Back

To break down food using acids and enzymes.

Front

What are the small intestines?

Back

A part of the digestive system where most of the digestion and absorption of nutrients occurs.

Front

What is the function of the large intestines?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of enzymes in digestion?

Back

To speed up the chemical reactions that break down food into smaller molecules.

Front

What is the difference between mechanical and chemical digestion?

Back

Mechanical digestion involves physical breakdown of food, while chemical digestion involves breaking down food with enzymes.