DIGESTIVE SYSTEM BASICS
What is the digestive system?
A system that breaks food into nutrients the body can use.
Where does digestion start?
In the mouth.
What moves food from the mouth to the stomach?
Oesophagus.
What acid is in the stomach?
Hydrochloric acid (HCl).
Where are most nutrients absorbed?
Small intestine.
Why is digestion necessary?
To get energy and nutrients from food.
What does saliva do?
It helps break down food.
What is peristalsis?
Muscle movements that push food.
What does pepsin do?
Breaks down proteins.
Name ONE part of the small intestine.
Duodenum / Jejunum / Ileum.
Name ONE main function of the digestive system.
Digestion / Absorption / Excretion.
Which teeth cut food?
Incisors.
What prevents food from going into the lungs?
Epiglottis.
What protects the stomach lining?
Mucus.
What does the large intestine absorb?
Water and minerals.
How long is the digestive tract?
About 7.5 meters.
What enzyme in saliva breaks down starch?
Ptyalin (or salivary amylase, “saliva enzyme”).
What is the pharynx’s job?
It directs food to the oesophagus.
What is food called after mixing in the stomach?
Chyme.
What does the pancreas produce?
Digestive enzymes (pancreatic juice) / Insulin