Digestive System Flashcards

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to the digestive system.

Digestion

The process of breaking food down into chemicals the body can use.

Gastrointestinal Tract (GI Tract)

A continuous muscular tube from the mouth to the anus where food is digested and nutrients are absorbed.

Accessory Digestive Organs

Organs such as teeth, tongue, salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas that aid in digestion.

Ingestion

The process of taking foods and liquids into the mouth.

Secretion

The process of producing and releasing substances that aid in digestion, such as water, acids, enzymes, and buffers.

Propulsion

Muscular contractions that mix and move food along the GI tract.

Mechanical Digestion

The physical breakdown of food into smaller pieces (e.g., chewing).

Chemical Digestion

The breakdown of food using enzymes and acids.

Absorption

The movement of nutrients from the GI tract lumen into the blood or lymph.

Defecation

The removal of undigested materials and waste from the body via the anus.

Lumen

The open space within the GI tract where food and fluids pass through.

Mucosa

The innermost layer of the GI tract wall, responsible for secretion, absorption, and protection.

Submucosa

A layer of connective tissue containing blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerve fibers; connects the mucosa to the muscularis.

Muscularis

A layer of smooth muscle responsible for movement and mixing in the GI tract.

Serosa

The outermost layer of the GI tract wall, made of connective tissue and epithelium; it reduces friction.

Mucosa

A layer of cells that lines the gastrointestinal tract and allows for secretion and absorption

Myenteric Nerve Plexus

Nerves that stimulate the smooth muscle cells in the muscularis.

Sphincters

Thickenings of smooth muscle which open and close the GI tract.