Digestive System Quiz

What is the primary function of the digestive system?

• Blood circulation

• Digestion and absorption of nutrients

• Oxygen transport

• Hormone production

Answer explanation

The primary function of the digestive system is the digestion and absorption of nutrients from food, which is essential for providing energy and building blocks for the body.

Which of the following is NOT part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract?

• Stomach

• Small intestine

• Heart

• Esophagus

Answer explanation

The heart is not part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract includes the stomach, small intestine, and esophagus, which are all involved in digestion, while the heart is part of the circulatory system.

The innermost layer of the digestive tract wall is called the:

• Muscularis

• Submucosa

• Serosa

• Mucosa

Answer explanation

The innermost layer of the digestive tract wall is called the mucosa. It is responsible for the secretion of mucus and absorption of nutrients, making it essential for digestive function.

Which of the following organs produces bile?

• Stomach

• Liver

• Pancreas

• Gallbladder

Answer explanation

The liver is the organ responsible for producing bile, which aids in digestion and fat absorption. The stomach and pancreas have different functions, while the gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver.

What enzyme begins the digestion of carbohydrates in the mouth?

• Lipase

• Pepsin

• Salivary amylase

• Trypsin

Answer explanation

Salivary amylase is the enzyme that initiates carbohydrate digestion in the mouth by breaking down starches into simpler sugars, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What is the main role of the small intestine?

• Absorption of nutrients

• Storage of bile

• Absorption of water

• Production of enzymes

Answer explanation

The main role of the small intestine is the absorption of nutrients from digested food, making it essential for providing the body with energy and essential compounds.

The process of breaking down large fat globules into smaller droplets is called:

• Peristalsis

• Digestion

• Emulsification

• Absorption

Answer explanation

The process of emulsification involves breaking down large fat globules into smaller droplets, which increases the surface area for enzymes to act on during digestion. This is essential for effective fat digestion.

Which of the following is the main function of the large intestine?

• Nutrient absorption

• Water absorption

• Protein digestion

• Glucose production

Answer explanation

The main function of the large intestine is water absorption. It reabsorbs water from indigestible food matter, helping to form solid waste. Nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine.

Where does most nutrient absorption occur in the digestive system?

• Stomach

• Large intestine

• Small intestine

• Esophagus

Answer explanation

Most nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine, where digested food is absorbed into the bloodstream. The stomach primarily breaks down food, while the large intestine absorbs water and the esophagus transports food.

Which organ is responsible for storing and concentrating bile?

• Liver

• Gallbladder

• Pancreas

• Small intestine

Answer explanation

The gallbladder is the organ responsible for storing and concentrating bile, which is produced by the liver. It releases bile into the small intestine to aid in digestion, particularly of fats.