Modes of Motility

Question 1

Peristalsis

Answer 1

• Coordinated, wave like contraction of smooth muscle in GIT
• Moves food and digestive contents forward

Question 2

Peristalsis process

Answer 2

• Contraction of circular muscles BEHIND a bolus of food & relaxation of longitudinal muscles AHEAD of it
• Creates wave of pressure that propels bolus through digestive tract
• Peristalis is essential- moves food from esophagus, to stomach, to small intestine to large intestine
• Contents propelled to 1 Direction
  To rectum

Question 3

Segmentation

Answer 3

• Localised alternating contractions of the circular muscles in the intestines
• Constricted segments within digestive tract

Question 4

Segmentation Process

Answer 4

• Not in 1 Direction
• Mixes and churns intestinal contents
• Back and forth movement - mix chyme with digestive enzymes and bile
• Enhances food breakdown and promotes nutrient absorption
• Interaction of chyme & intestinal wall
• Role in optimising digestion and nutrient uptake