Question 1

Which of the following best describes the role of the accessory organs in the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

They secrete materials that aid in digestion, such as enzymes and bile.

Question 2

During the cephalic phase of digestion, which event is most likely to occur before food enters the oral cavity?

Accepted Answer

Activation of neurons in the medulla in response to the sight or smell of food.

Question 3

Which process is responsible for the movement of material through the GI tract as a result of muscle contraction?

Accepted Answer

Motility

Question 4

A patient with cystic fibrosis has a mutation in the CFTR channel. Which digestive process is most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of isotonic NaCl in the intestine

Question 5

Which of the following is a function of healthy gut microbiota?

Accepted Answer

Breakdown of fat molecules and synthesis of vitamins B & K

Question 6

Which hormone stimulates gastric acid secretion and is released by G cells in the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Gastrin

Question 7

What is the primary function of the hepatic portal vein in digestion?

Accepted Answer

To transport absorbed nutrients from the GI tract to the liver for processing

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why skeletal muscle is NOT the best choice for the stomach's muscle layers?

Accepted Answer

Skeletal muscle cannot contract rhythmically for long periods without fatigue.

Question 9

Which equation best represents the active transport of sodium out of intestinal cells?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{Na^+} + \mathrm{K^+} + \mathrm{ATP} \rightarrow \mathrm{Na^+_{out}} + \mathrm{K^+_{in}} + \mathrm{ADP} + \mathrm{P_i}$$

Question 10

Which of the following is a direct effect of secretin released from the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Stimulates pancreatic bicarbonate secretion

Question 11

A patient presents with chronic diarrhea. Which pathological condition of the large intestine could explain this symptom?

Accepted Answer

Decreased water absorption due to inflammation

Question 12

Which process is responsible for the chemical breakdown of food into absorbable units?

Accepted Answer

Digestion

Question 13

Which vitamin requires intrinsic factor for absorption in the ileum?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin B$$_{12}$$

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of bile salts in fat digestion?

Accepted Answer

They emulsify fats, increasing surface area for enzyme action.

Question 15

Which cell type in the gastric mucosa secretes hydrochloric acid?

Accepted Answer

Parietal cells

Question 16

What is the main function of the external anal sphincter?

Accepted Answer

To control voluntary defecation

Question 17

Which immune function is performed by M cells in the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Sampling gut contents and attracting additional immune cells via cytokine secretion

Question 18

Which of the following is a consequence of unhealthy gut flora?

Accepted Answer

Ulcers and inflammation

Question 19

Which equation best represents the chemical barrier that protects the stomach lining?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{$$HCO_3$$^-} + \mathrm{H^+} \rightarrow \mathrm{H_2O} + \mathrm{CO_2$}$$

Question 20

Which of the following is a direct result of segmental contractions in the intestine?

Accepted Answer

Mixing of intestinal contents to enhance digestion and absorption

Comprehensive Study Notes: The Digestive System (Anatomy & Physiology)

Study Guide - Practice Questions