Alimentary Canal Anatomy and Function Quiz

Function and Structure of the Alimentary Canal

• The main function of the organs of the alimentary canal is to digest and absorb nutrients from ingested food.

Length of the Alimentary Canal

• The length of the alimentary canal during life is approximately 6-7 meters (20-23 feet).
• After death, the length of the alimentary canal increases to around 8-10 meters (26-33 feet) due to relaxation of the smooth muscles.

Modified Parts of the Alimentary Canal

• The modified parts of the alimentary canal between the mouth and anus are the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.

Technical Status of Food and Wastes

• Food and wastes within the alimentary canal are technically considered outside the body, as they are not part of the body's tissues.

Alternative Name

• The alimentary canal is also known as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Post-Mortem Length

• The total length of the alimentary canal after death is around 8-10 meters (26-33 feet).

External Part of the Alimentary Canal

• The mouth is considered to be outside the body, as it is exposed to the environment.

Functional Needs of the Body

• The alimentary canal is modified to fit the functional needs of the body, which include ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination of nutrients.

Tissue Layers of the Alimentary Tract

• The tissue layers that compose the alimentary tract are the mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa.