Path of food through the body

What is ingestion?

Ingestion is the process of taking food into the body through the mouth.

Define digestion.

Digestion is the breakdown of food into smaller molecules that the body can absorb.

What role does saliva play?

Saliva begins the digestion of carbohydrates and helps lubricate food.

True or false: The stomach absorbs nutrients.

False, because the stomach mainly digests food, not absorbs nutrients.

Difference between mechanical and chemical digestion.

Mechanical digestion physically breaks down food (chewing), while chemical digestion uses enzymes to break down molecules.

Where does nutrient absorption primarily occur?

Nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine.

What are villi?

Villi are tiny, finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area for absorption.

Fill in the blank: The large intestine absorbs _____ and forms waste.

water

Which organ produces bile?

The liver produces bile, which helps digest fats.

True or false: The esophagus is where most digestion occurs.

False, because the esophagus only transports food to the stomach.

What is the primary function of the pancreas?

The pancreas produces enzymes that aid in digestion and regulates blood sugar.

Question: What is peristalsis?

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

List the four main stages of digestion.

1. Ingestion 2. Digestion 3. Absorption 4. Elimination

Which part of the digestive system absorbs most nutrients?

The small intestine absorbs most nutrients due to its large surface area.

What is chyme?

Chyme is the semi-liquid food mixture that leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine.

Fill in the blank: The _____ connects the throat to the stomach.

esophagus

True or false: Fiber is digested in the stomach.

False, because fiber is not digested but helps regulate the digestive system.

What is the role of the gallbladder?

The gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver until needed for digestion.

Which vitamin is produced in the large intestine?

Vitamin K is produced in the large intestine by bacteria.

What is the role of the rectum?

The rectum stores waste until it is expelled from the body through the anus.