FUNCTIONS & BASICS
What is the main function of the digestive system?
Break down food into nutrients the body can use
Where does digestion begin?
Mouth
What type of digestion happens when the stomach churns food?
Mechanical digestion
Where does most nutrient absorption occur?
Small intestine
What is the main function of the large intestine?
Absorb water
What are the two types of digestion?
Mechanical and chemical digestion
What enzyme in saliva begins breaking down carbohydrates?
Amylase
What acid is found in the stomach?
Hydrochloric acid
What structures increase surface area for absorption?
Villi
Which organ produces bile?
Liver
Which type of digestion physically breaks food apart?
Mechanical digestion
What is the name of the ball of chewed food?
Bolus
What enzyme in the stomach breaks down proteins?
Pepsin
What do carbohydrates break down into?
Glucose
Which organ stores bile?
Gallbladder
What is the name of the liquid mixture formed in the stomach?
Chyme
What movement pushes food down the esophagus?
Peristalsis
Why doesn’t the stomach digest itself?
It has a protective mucus lining
What system carries absorbed nutrients to the body?
Circulatory system
Which organ produces digestive enzymes?
Pancreas
Why must food be broken into smaller molecules?
So it can be absorbed into the bloodstream
What structure prevents food from entering the lungs when swallowing?
Epiglottis
How long does food typically stay in the stomach?
2–4 hours
Why is surface area important in the small intestine?
More surface area allows more nutrient absorption
What helpful organisms live in the large intestine?
Bacteria (gut microbiota)