The Digestive System 2025 Flashcards
The three functions, key organs, functions, accessory organs, mechanical and chemical digestion.
Three functions of the digestive system
Digestion of food, absorption of nutrients from food, and elimination of solid food waste
Function of the Mouth
Teeth for mechanical digestion and salivary glands produce saliva, which contains enzymes that start breaking down carbohydrates
Function of the Esophagus
A muscular tube that uses peristalsis (wave-like contractions) to push food from the mouth to the stomach.
Function of the Stomach
Mix food with gastric juices (acid and enzymes) to further break it down. Continue the breakdown of proteins and start the digestion of fats.
Function of the Small Intestine
Receives partially digested food from the stomach and mixes it with digestive juices from the pancreas and bile from the liver. Primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals) into the bloodstream through tiny structures called villi.
Function of the Large Intestine
Absorbs water and electrolytes from undigested food, forming feces.
Houses beneficial bacteria that aid in digestion and waste breakdown.
Function of the Liver
Produces bile, which emulsifies fats, making them easier to digest and absorb
Function of the Gall Bladder
Stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver, releasing it into the small intestine when needed.
Function of the Pancreas
Secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine to break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It also produces insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
Function of Anus
The opening through which solid waste is eliminated.
Function of Rectum
Stores solid waste before elimination.
What are the accessory organs
Liver, pancreas, gall bladder
Mechanical digestion
Mechanical digestion involves the physical breakdown of food
Chemical Digestion
Chemical digestion involves enzymatic breakdown
