What is a bolus and how is it formed?
Understand the Problem
The question asks for a definition of a bolus and an explanation of its formation. A bolus, in the context of biology, typically refers to a rounded mass of chewed food prepared by the mouth for swallowing. The question requires both a concise definition and a description of the process by which it is created.
Answer
A bolus is a ball-like mixture of food and saliva formed in the mouth through chewing.
A bolus is a soft, ball-like mixture of chewed food and saliva. It forms in the mouth during chewing, which helps to reduce food particle size, with saliva providing an alkaline pH and enzymes to initiate digestion.
Answer for screen readers
A bolus is a soft, ball-like mixture of chewed food and saliva. It forms in the mouth during chewing, which helps to reduce food particle size, with saliva providing an alkaline pH and enzymes to initiate digestion.
More Information
The term 'bolus' comes from the Latin word for 'ball'.
Tips
Do not confuse a bolus formed in the mouth with an intravenous bolus, which is a concentrated dose of medication.
Sources
- Bolus | Gastric Emptying, Digestion, Absorption - Britannica - britannica.com
- Bolus - Explanation, Formation and FAQs - Vedantu - vedantu.com
- Bolus | Definition & Administration | Study.com - study.com
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