Esophagus #3

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to the anatomy and function of the esophagus as described in the lecture notes.

Esophagus

A muscular tube connecting the throat (pharynx) with the stomach, passing through the diaphragm. It transports food and liquids through peristaltic movements.

Uvula

A structure that flips upward to keep food from entering the nasal cavity (pharynx).

Peristalsis

The involuntary action that pushes food down the esophagus.

Bolus

A lump of food that enters the esophagus.

Chyme

A liquid mixture formed when the bolus dissolves by mixing with stomach fluid.

Esophageal sphincter

Muscle that controls the passage of food from the esophagus to the stomach. and prevents the reflux into the esophagus

Diaphragm

A muscle that the esophagus passes through just before entering the stomach.

Oropharynx

Part of the pharynx that is located at the back of the mouth.

Laryngopharynx

The part of the pharynx that lies behind the larynx.

where does food never go through?

nasopharynx, Larynx, and trachea