18 Questions
What is the function of lipase in the digestive system?
Aids in the digestion of lipids (fats)
Which organ secretes acid and powerful enzymes to continue breaking down food into a consistency of liquid or paste?
Stomach
What is the function of amylase in the digestive system?
Breaks down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars
Which part of the gastrointestinal tract carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach?
Esophagus
What is the name of the sphincter that contracts to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus?
Esophageal sphincter
Which condition is characterized by symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, sensation of a lump in the throat, and trouble swallowing?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Which part of the small intestine is largely responsible for absorbing nutrients and water?
Jejunum
What symptom is associated with peptic ulcers in the form of trouble swallowing?
Heartburn
Which part of the small intestine neutralizes acidic chyme and uses bile for digestion?
Duodenum
What symptom is commonly linked to appendicitis?
Abdominal pain (lower right)
Which part of the small intestine is responsible for absorbing most nutrients before emptying into the large intestine?
Ileum
What is a function of the large intestine?
Stores undigested food temporarily
What is a common symptom of Crohn's disease?
Whitish mucus in stool
Which organ stores bile in the body?
Gallbladder
What is the primary function of the liver in the biliary system?
Removes waste and toxins from the body
What is a common symptom of cirrhosis?
Fatigue
Which digestive process involves physically breaking down food into smaller particles?
Mechanical digestion
What is the cause of gallstones in the biliary system?
Chemical imbalance
Study Notes
Digestive System
- The digestive system is a network of organs that help digest and absorb nutrition from food, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the biliary system.
Gastrointestinal Tract (GI Tract or Digestive Tract)
- A hollow, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus, comprising the oral cavity, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
Oral Cavity (Mouth)
- Includes teeth, tongue, and salivary glands that produce enzymes like amylase (breaks down complex carbohydrates) and lipase (helps digest lipids).
Esophagus
- A muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach, with an esophageal sphincter that prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.
Stomach
- A sac-like organ with strong muscular walls that secretes acid and enzymes, breaking down food into a liquid or paste (chyme).
Biliary System
- Includes the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, which work together to aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Liver
- Removes wastes and toxins, breaks down nutrients, and stores vitamins and minerals.
Gallbladder
- A pouch-shaped organ that stores bile, which aids in fat digestion.
Pancreas
- Discharges enzymes into the small intestine to break down protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
Digestive Process
- Involves two types of digestion: mechanical (physically breaking down food) and chemical (degrading molecular structure using enzymes).
Small Intestine
- Responsible for continuous breakdown and absorption of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, and proteins) and water.
Large Intestine
- Temporary storage of undigested food, absorption of water, and formation of feces.
Anus
- Lined with muscles that help control bowel movements.
Test your knowledge on the parts and functions of the digestive system, mechanical and chemical digestion, the process of digestion in the human digestive system, and developing healthy eating habits. Learn about the network of organs involved in digestion and absorption of nutrients.
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