Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the mesentery in the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

It is a double layer of peritoneum that holds digestive organs in place, stores fat, and allows passage of blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves.

Question 2

A patient has a blockage in the hepatic portal vein. Which of the following consequences is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Reduced delivery of nutrient-rich blood from the digestive tract to the liver.

Question 3

Which layer of the alimentary canal is primarily responsible for peristalsis and segmentation?

Accepted Answer

Muscularis externa

Question 4

Which of the following is a unique feature of the stomach’s muscularis externa compared to other regions of the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

It has an additional oblique muscle layer for enhanced churning.

Question 5

What is the main function of goblet cells in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Production of mucus to protect and lubricate the lining

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the difference between peristalsis and segmentation?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis involves alternating contraction and relaxation to move food distally, while segmentation involves nonadjacent segments contracting to mix and break down food.

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a function of saliva?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of amino acids

Question 8

A patient with xerostomia (dry mouth) is most likely experiencing which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Strong sympathetic stimulation or dehydration inhibiting salivation

Question 9

Which of the following statements about the peritoneum is correct?

Accepted Answer

The peritoneal cavity is filled with serous fluid and lies between the visceral and parietal layers.

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why the epithelium of the gums, hard palate, and back of the tongue is somewhat keratinized?

Accepted Answer

To provide extra protection against abrasion from food

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct dental formula for permanent teeth (including wisdom teeth) in one half of the mouth?

Accepted Answer

$$2I, 1C, 2PM, 3M$$

Question 12

Which of the following cell types in the stomach secretes hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor?

Accepted Answer

Parietal cells

Question 13

A patient has a mutation that prevents the formation of tight junctions between the columnar epithelial cells of the stomach. What is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of stomach ulcers due to acid leakage

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the role of the myenteric plexus?

Accepted Answer

It controls the motility of the muscularis externa in the GI tract.

Question 15

During swallowing, which structure rises to close off the nasopharynx and prevent food from entering the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

Soft palate

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Protection against infection by immune surveillance

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the process of mastication?

Accepted Answer

It is a reflexive process involving the coordinated action of jaw, lips, cheeks, and tongue muscles to mechanically break down food.

Question 18

Which of the following is a consequence of the degeneration of enamel-producing cells after tooth eruption?

Accepted Answer

Teeth can no longer repair or replace lost enamel.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the pancreas and duodenum are classified as retroperitoneal organs?

Accepted Answer

They adhered to the body wall during development and lost their mesentery.

Question 20

Which of the following is a primary function of the submucosal plexus?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of smooth muscle and glandular activity in the mucosa and submucosa

Digestive System: Structure and Function (ANP1115 Lecture 10 Study Notes)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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