Chapter 6: Human Physiology

Question 1

Define peristalsis

Answer 1

The process by which involuntary successive waves of involuntary constriction and relaxation of the muscles of the small intestine (or another canal) push the contents of the canal forwards

Question 2

What does the contraction of each layer of muscle in the small intestine do? What does the contraction of both layers of muscle in the small intestine do?

Answer 2

• Contraction of circular muscle behind the food constricts the gut to prevent food from being pushed back towards the mouth
• Contraction of the longitudinal muscle where the food is located moves it on along the gut
• Contraction of both layers of muscle mixes food with enzymes in the small intestine