Digestive System Review Sheet

What is the primary function of the organs in the alimentary canal?

To digest food and break it down into fragments.

List the main organs of the alimentary canal (GI tract).

Mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, anus.

What is peristalsis?

The wave-like movement of contraction and relaxation of muscles that squeezes food along the digestive tract.

What is mastication?

The process of chewing food to mix it with saliva and move it toward the pharynx.

How many permanent teeth does an adult typically have?

32 permanent teeth.

What are third molars and when do they typically emerge?

Third molars, or wisdom teeth, usually emerge between 17-25 years of age.

What is the dental formula for adult permanent teeth?

2 Incisors, 1 Canine, 2 Premolars, 3 Molars (x2) = 32 teeth.

Plus baby teeth: 20 teeth

altogether: 52 teeth

What enzyme in saliva starts the digestion of starch?

Amylase.

What part of the stomach connects to the esophagus?

The gastroesophageal sphincter.

What is the main part of the stomach called?

The body of the stomach.

What muscle is located at the end of the stomach before the small intestine?

The pyloric sphincter.

What does pepsin start the digestion of?

Proteins.

What cells in the stomach secrete intrinsic factor?

Oxyntic cells.

Why is intrinsic factor important?

It is required for the intestinal absorption of vitamin B12, which is needed to produce mature erythrocytes.

What is secretin and what does it stimulate?

Secretin is released by intestinal cells exposed to chyme and stimulates liver cells to secrete bile.

What is the largest internal organ?

The liver.

What is the function of bile?

Bile acts as a fat emulsifier, breaking down fats into smaller particles for digestion.

Where is bile made?

In the liver.

What are the three parts of the small intestine?

1. Duodenum 2. Jejunum 3. Ileum.

What is the shortest part of the small intestine?

The duodenum, which is about 10 inches long.

What increases the surface area in the small intestine?

Villi, circular folds, and microvilli.

What does intestinal flora synthesize in the large intestine?

B complex vitamins and most of vitamin K.

What holds the intestines in place?

The mesentery.