Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the alimentary canal in the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

It digests food and absorbs fragments through its lining into the blood.

Question 2

During peristalsis, what is the primary mechanism by which food is moved through the alimentary canal?

Accepted Answer

Alternating waves of contraction and relaxation propel food distally.

Question 3

Which layer of the alimentary canal is responsible for producing local movements of the mucosa?

Accepted Answer

Muscularis mucosae

Question 4

A patient presents with widespread peritonitis. Which of the following is the most immediate danger associated with this condition?

Accepted Answer

Widespread infection leading to sepsis

Question 5

Which of the following statements about the enteric nervous system is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It contains more neurons than the spinal cord.

Question 6

Which of the following is a function of saliva produced by the salivary glands?

Accepted Answer

Begins breakdown of starch with amylase.

Question 7

A child is diagnosed with ankyloglossia. Which anatomical structure is affected?

Accepted Answer

Lingual frenulum

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the composition of saliva?

Accepted Answer

Mostly water, slightly acidic, contains electrolytes, enzymes, and antimicrobial proteins.

Question 9

Which of the following is a plausible consequence of periodontitis?

Accepted Answer

Destruction of periodontal ligament and activation of osteoclasts leading to bone loss

Question 10

Which equation best represents the ratio of upper to lower teeth for half of the mouth in the permanent dental formula?

Accepted Answer

$$2:1:2:3$$

Question 11

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the mucosa of the alimentary canal?

Accepted Answer

It secretes mucus, digestive enzymes, and hormones, absorbs end products of digestion, and protects against infectious disease.

Question 12

Which of the following organs is considered retroperitoneal?

Accepted Answer

Duodenum

Question 13

Which nerve plexus primarily controls GI tract motility?

Accepted Answer

Myenteric nerve plexus

Question 14

Which of the following is a plausible effect of strong sympathetic stimulation on the salivary glands?

Accepted Answer

Dry mouth (xerostomia)

Question 15

Which of the following is TRUE about the enamel of teeth?

Accepted Answer

It is the hardest substance in the body, heavily mineralized with calcium salts and hydroxyapatite crystals.

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of the muscularis externa in the alimentary canal?

Accepted Answer

Responsible for segmentation and peristalsis

Question 17

Which of the following is a plausible result of neglected gingivitis?

Accepted Answer

Escalation to periodontitis, destruction of periodontal ligament, and possible tooth loss

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the effect of parasympathetic stimulation on the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

Enhances digestive processes

Question 19

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the function of the tongue?

Accepted Answer

It grips, repositions, and mixes food during chewing, forms the bolus, and initiates swallowing, speech, and taste.

Question 20

Which of the following is a plausible risk factor for periodontitis?

Accepted Answer

Smoking, diabetes mellitus, and oral piercings

Chapter 23: The Digestive System – Structure and Function

Study Guide - Practice Questions