the flow of food

Question 1

mouth: how is food broken down?

Answer 1

food broken down mechanically
chewing -> produces bolus

Question 2

mouth: What are salivary glands for?

Answer 2

lubrication
supplies the enzyme amylase to break down amylose (starch)

Question 3

Esophagus: function of epiglottis

Answer 3

epiglottis covers glottis to block windpipe

Question 4

esophagus: what do contractions do

Answer 4

muscle contractions (peristalsis) moves food downward

Question 5

stomach: contains a

Answer 5

muscular secretory sac

Question 6

Stomach: gastric juices secrete….

Answer 6

-enzymes: biochemically break down food
-strong acid (pH 2): chemically break down food
-mucus: lubrication + protection (stomach wall)
-gastrin: regulates secretion, triggered by food expanding stomach
-produces chyme (broken down material), passes through pyloric sphincter (keeps everything in stomach)

Question 7

small intestine: what is the purpose

Answer 7

primary digestive and nutrient absorption organ