DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

A long tube that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus, breaking down food for absorption and energy.

Digestive System

The process by which the esophagus transports food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach.

Peristalsis

A structure that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing.

Epiglottis

The semi-liquid form food is turned into by the stomach during digestion.

Chyme

A fluid produced by the liver that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats.

Bile

A long, coiled tube responsible for most nutrient digestion and absorption, consisting of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.

Small Intestine

The first part of the large intestine that receives digested material from the small intestine.

Cecum

The final section of the large intestine that acts as a temporary storage site for stool before elimination.

Rectum

An organ that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver for fat digestion.

Gallbladder

A mixture of acids and enzymes secreted by the stomach to aid in food digestion.

Gastric Juices

A small organ attached to the large intestine, often considered vestigial with no significant digestive function.

Appendix

The longest part of the large intestine, which absorbs water and electrolytes from waste material.

Colon