Digestive System Vocabulary Flashcards

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the digestive system to aid in exam preparation.

Digestion

The process of converting complex molecules into simpler molecules that are easily absorbed by the body.

Hydrolysis

A chemical process that breaks down compounds by adding water.

Absorption

The process of taking digested nutrients into the bloodstream.

Gastrin

A hormone that stimulates the secretion of gastric acid and aids in digestion.

Peristalsis

Wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Chyme

A pasty mixture of partially digested food and digestive juices in the stomach.

Villi

Finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase the surface area for absorption.

Enterokinase

An enzyme that activates trypsinogen into trypsin in the small intestine.

Extrinsic Nervous System

The part of the nervous system responsible for regulating the digestive process from outside the gut.

Intrinsic Nervous System

A complex network of neurons within the gastrointestinal tract that control digestion.

Bile

A digestive fluid produced by the liver that aids in the emulsification and breakdown of fats.

Zymogen

An inactive precursor of an enzyme that requires biochemical change to become active.

Ghrelin

A hormone that stimulates appetite and regulates energy balance.

Gallbladder

A small organ that stores bile produced by the liver until it is needed for digestion.

Peptic Ulcer

A sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine.