Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the brush border enzymes in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They break down complex nutrients into absorbable monomers.

Question 2

A patient has a deficiency in pancreatic amylase. Which nutrient's digestion will be most affected?

Accepted Answer

Carbohydrates

Question 3

Which hormone is secreted by the stomach and stimulates gastric acid secretion?

Accepted Answer

Gastrin

Question 4

The majority of nutrient absorption occurs in which segment of the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Jejunum

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver in digestion?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of digestive enzymes into the duodenum

Question 6

If the lower esophageal sphincter fails to close properly, which condition is most likely to result?

Accepted Answer

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why the small intestine has a large surface area for absorption?

Accepted Answer

It contains numerous villi and microvilli.

Question 8

A patient is unable to digest fats efficiently. Which organ is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Gallbladder

Question 9

Which of the following equations correctly represents the chemical breakdown of starch by amylase?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{Starch} + \mathrm{Amylase} \rightarrow \mathrm{Maltose}$$

Question 10

Which process is responsible for moving food through the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of cholecystokinin (CCK) in digestion?

Accepted Answer

Stimulates gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme secretion

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

Fat emulsification and absorption in the small intestine

Question 13

Which of the following is the correct order of the segments of the small intestine from proximal to distal?

Accepted Answer

Duodenum, jejunum, ileum

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of gastrin?

Accepted Answer

Stimulates secretion of gastric acid from parietal cells

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct description of the enteric nervous system?

Accepted Answer

It regulates local reflexes and coordinates motility and secretion in the gut.

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water and electrolytes

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

Fat and carbohydrate digestion in the small intestine

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

Stimulates secretion of bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juice

Question 19

Which of the following equations represents the chemical breakdown of triglycerides by pancreatic lipase?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{Triglyceride} + \mathrm{Lipase} \rightarrow \mathrm{Monoglyceride} + 2\ \mathrm{Fatty\ acids}$$

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the function of villi in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.

Digestive System: Comprehensive Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions