Digestive System Flashcard

Front

What happens to swallowed gum in the digestive system?

Back

It gets broken down like regular food.

Front

Why do some corn kernels seem to survive digestion?

Back

Corn has a tough outer shell that’s hard to digest.

Front

What are villi in the small intestine?

Back

Tiny finger-like projections that absorb nutrients.

Front

What part of the pharynx belongs to the food passageway?

Back

Laryngopharynx.

Front

What is the gastrocolic reflex?

Back

It’s the gut’s natural reaction to clear space for more food after eating.

Front

What is the primary function of the digestive system?

Back

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

Front

What role does the stomach play in digestion?

Back

It mixes food with digestive juices and breaks it down into a semi-liquid form.

Front

What is the function of the small intestine?

Back

To absorb nutrients and minerals from food.

Front

What is the role of enzymes in digestion?

Back

They help 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 enzymatic breakdown.