Digestive System Concepts and Functions

Front

What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system in the digestive system?

Back

The parasympathetic nervous system stimulates digestive activities, including increased mucus secretion, increased peristalsis, and increased production of saliva.

Front

Which part of the digestive system is NOT part of the large intestine?

Back

Ileum is part of the small intestine, not the large intestine.

Front

What are the primary functions of the stomach?

Back

The stomach is responsible for mechanical digestion, initiation of protein digestion, denaturation of proteins, and storage of ingested food. It does NOT absorb triglycerides.

Front

What oral structure is responsible for manipulating food during chewing?

Back

The tongue is responsible for manipulating food and producing the enzyme lipase.

Front

What is NOT a function of the stomach?

Back

The stomach does not secrete enzymes that break down carbohydrates.

Front

Define mechanical digestion.

Back

Mechanical digestion is the physical breakdown of food into smaller pieces, which increases the surface area for enzymes to act.

Front

What is the function of hydrochloric acid in the stomach?

Back

Hydrochloric acid helps to denature proteins and creates an acidic environment for enzyme activity.

Front

What is the significance of peristalsis in the digestive system?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of saliva in digestion?

Back

Saliva contains enzymes like amylase that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates and helps in lubricating food for easier swallowing.

Front

What is the function of the cecum?

Back

The cecum is the beginning of the large intestine and plays a role in absorbing fluids and salts that remain after intestinal digestion.