Digestive System Vocabulary Review

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to the digestive system and its functions.

Digestion

The process of obtaining nutrients from ingested material.

Alimentary Canal

A long tube that includes various sections modified for mechanical and chemical functions such as ingestion, absorption, and defecation.

Peritoneum

The serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering the abdominal organs.

Mucosa

The innermost layer of the gut tube, responsible for secretion and absorption.

Mesentery

Folds of peritoneum that suspend organs in the abdominal cavity from the walls.

Salivary Glands

Glands that produce saliva, which aids in digestion by moistening food and begins the process of chemical digestion.

Deglutition

The process of swallowing.

Oesophageal Stage

Stage of swallowing where peristalsis pushes food down the esophagus.

Gastric Juice

Digestive fluid secreted by the stomach, containing hydrochloric acid and enzymes.

Chyme

Semi-fluid mass of partly digested food expelled from the stomach into the duodenum.

Plicae Circulares

Permanent folds in the mucosa of the small intestine that increase surface area for absorption.

Peristalsis

Wavelike muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Hepatic Portal System

The system of blood vessels that carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver.

Villi

Small, finger-like projections that increase the surface area of the intestine for absorption.

Bile

Digestive fluid produced by the liver, important for fat emulsification.

Defecation

The process of excreting waste from the digestive tract.

Enteric Nervous System (ENS)

A complex system of neurons that governs the function of the gastrointestinal tract.

Lysozyme

An enzyme found in saliva that helps to destroy bacteria.

Salivary Amylase

Digestive enzyme in saliva that breaks down carbohydrates.

Bicarbonate Ions

Buffering agents in saliva that neutralize acidity of foods.

Insulin

Hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels.

Glucagon

Hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels.