The Anatomy of the Digestive System

Question 1

Digestive System Overview

Answer 1

• the ability to break down food we ingest
• the bodily structures that breakdown food and absorb nutrients
• the chemical agents and enzymes that help speed up the breaking down of food
• nutrients, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals

Question 2

Accessory Organs of Digestive System

Answer 2

• aid in the digestive process

* liver, gallbladder, pancreas

Question 3

Anatomy of the Digestive System

Answer 3

Major organs and supporting structures that are found in the digestive system include:

• teeth
• tongue
• pharynx
• epiglottis
• esophagus
• stomach
• liver
• gallbladder
• pancreas

Question 4

Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract

Answer 4

• a continuous muscular tube from the mouth to the anus
Basic Anatomy:
• mouth > esophagus > stomach > small intestine > large intestine > rectum > anus
• lumen: the space inside the hollow tube

Question 5

Functions of the GI Tract and Accessory Organs: Digestion

Answer 5

• the physical and chemical breakdown of food

Question 6

Functions of the GI Tract and Accessory Organs: Absorption

Answer 6

• the transfer of nutrients from the digestive tract into blood or lymphatic circulatory system

Question 7

Functions of the GI Tract and Accessory Organs: Absorption

Answer 7

• the transfer of nutrients from the digestive tract into blood or lymphatic circulatory system

Question 8

Functions of the GI Tract and Accessory Organs: Elimination

Answer 8

• the expulsion of solid waste from the body