$$\text{Starch} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \xrightarrow{\text{amylase}} \text{Maltose}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the process of peristalsis in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Rhythmic contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle that propels food forward through the digestive tract.

Question 2

During the buccal phase of swallowing, which anatomical structure prevents food from entering the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

The soft palate rises to close off the nasopharynx.

Question 3

Which enzyme is responsible for the initial breakdown of starch in the mouth?

Accepted Answer

Salivary amylase

Question 4

A patient is unable to absorb vitamin B12 due to a lack of intrinsic factor. Which gastric cell type is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Parietal cells

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a function of saliva?

Accepted Answer

Emulsification of fats

Question 6

Which structure increases the surface area of the small intestine for absorption?

Accepted Answer

Villi

Question 7

Which phase of gastric secretion is stimulated by the sight, smell, and taste of food?

Accepted Answer

Cephalic phase

Question 8

Which of the following best explains the role of bile in digestion?

Accepted Answer

Bile emulsifies fats, increasing their surface area for lipase action.

Question 9

A patient has a blockage in the common bile duct. Which digestive process will be most affected?

Accepted Answer

Emulsification and absorption of dietary fats

Question 10

Which of the following equations correctly represents the chemical reaction catalyzed by pancreatic amylase?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Starch} + 	ext{H}_2	ext{O} \xrightarrow{	ext{amylase}} 	ext{Maltose}$$

Question 11

Which hormone stimulates the gallbladder to contract and release bile into the duodenum?

Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

Question 12

Which of the following is a major function of the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water and electrolytes

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the mucosal barrier of the stomach?

Accepted Answer

A layer of bicarbonate-rich mucus that protects epithelial cells from acid.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the passage of food through the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Mouth → Pharynx → Esophagus → Stomach → Small intestine → Large intestine → Rectum

Question 15

Which of the following is a function of the enteric nervous system in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Regulates local digestive activity independent of the central nervous system.

Question 16

Which of the following best explains the absorption of monosaccharides in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Monosaccharides are absorbed into epithelial cells by active transport and then enter the blood capillaries by facilitated diffusion.

Question 17

Which of the following correctly matches the digestive enzyme with its substrate?

Accepted Answer

Pepsin: proteins

Question 18

A patient presents with steatorrhea (fatty stools) and vitamin deficiencies. Which digestive process is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of fats in the small intestine

Question 19

Which of the following equations represents the neutralization of stomach acid by pancreatic bicarbonate?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{HCl} + 	ext{NaHCO}_3 ightarrow 	ext{NaCl} + 	ext{H}_2	ext{O} + 	ext{CO}_2$$

Question 20

Which of the following is a major function of bacterial flora in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Fermentation of indigestible carbohydrates to recover energy

Digestive System: Anatomy & Physiology Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions