Question 1

Which structure is responsible for connecting the small intestine to the posterior body wall and carrying blood and lymphatic vessels?

Accepted Answer

Mesentery

Question 2

A patient is diagnosed with a deficiency in vitamin B12 absorption. Which gastric secretion is most likely impaired, and where is it produced?

Accepted Answer

Intrinsic factor, produced in the stomach

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the function of the plicae circularis in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They slow the flow of chyme and increase absorption

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Ptyalin (Salivary Amylase)

Question 5

A patient presents with frequent heartburn due to stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus. Which sphincter is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Gastroesophageal (Lower Esophageal) sphincter

Question 6

Which hormone is secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreas and is responsible for increasing blood glucose levels?

Accepted Answer

Glucagon

Question 7

Which of the following processes describes the breakdown of glycogen to increase blood glucose levels?

Accepted Answer

Glycogenolysis

Question 8

Which structure in the small intestine is primarily responsible for most food and water absorption?

Accepted Answer

Jejunum

Question 9

A patient has a disorder affecting the Peyer’s patches. Which function is most likely compromised?

Accepted Answer

Immune defense in the ileum

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the process of peristalsis?

Accepted Answer

Rhythmic contractions that move food through the digestive tract

Question 11

Which chemical is responsible for emulsifying large fat globules into smaller droplets, aiding in fat digestion?

Accepted Answer

Bile

Question 12

Which hormone is released by the anterior pituitary in response to a releasing hormone from the hypothalamus and stimulates growth and metabolism?

Accepted Answer

Growth hormone

Question 13

Which of the following is the correct sequence for the movement of food from the mouth to the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Mouth → Pharynx → Esophagus → Stomach

Question 14

Which process describes the conversion of amino acids and fats into new glucose molecules?

Accepted Answer

Gluconeogenesis

Question 15

Which of the following structures is lined with stratified squamous epithelium? (Select the best answer)

Accepted Answer

Esophagus

Question 16

A patient has difficulty digesting fats due to a lack of pancreatic enzymes. Which enzyme is most likely deficient?

Accepted Answer

Lipase

Question 17

Which hormone is released by neural control and is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, including increased glucose availability?

Accepted Answer

Adrenaline

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the rugae in the stomach?

Accepted Answer

They allow the stomach to expand after eating

Question 19

Which process is described by the equation below, and what is its physiological significance?

$$	ext{Triglyceride} ightarrow 	ext{Glycerol} + 	ext{Fatty Acids}$$

Accepted Answer

Lipolysis; provides energy during fasting

Question 20

A patient with a damaged pyloric sphincter would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Uncontrolled release of stomach contents into the duodenum

Digestive System and Metabolism Practice – Guided Study

Study Guide - Practice Questions