Which set correctly lists the accessory organs of the digestive system?

• A. Spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, and urinary bladder
• B. Esophagus, pharynx, stomach, and duodenum
• C. Stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum
• D. Salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between accessory organs and primary organs of the digestive system. Accessory organs assist in digestion but are not part of the direct food pathway.
2. Step 2: Identify the primary organs of the digestive system, which include the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. These organs form the continuous tube through which food passes.
3. Step 3: Recognize that accessory organs produce or store secretions that aid digestion, such as enzymes or bile, but food does not pass through them directly.
4. Step 4: Review the options and eliminate those that list organs not involved in digestion (e.g., spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, urinary bladder) or only primary digestive organs (e.g., esophagus, stomach, intestines).
5. Step 5: Confirm that the correct set of accessory organs includes the salivary glands (produce saliva), liver (produces bile), gallbladder (stores bile), and pancreas (produces digestive enzymes), as these contribute essential secretions to the digestive process.