Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the alimentary canal in the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

It digests and absorbs food as it passes through its various sections.

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT considered an accessory digestive organ?

Accepted Answer

Small intestine

Question 3

During which digestive process are nutrients moved from the GI tract into the blood or lymph?

Accepted Answer

Absorption

Question 4

Peristalsis is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Waves of contraction and relaxation of muscles in the organ walls.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Muscularis externa

Question 6

A patient presents with a dry mouth due to inhibited salivation. Which branch of the nervous system is most likely overactive?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic nervous system

Question 7

Which of the following is a function of the mucosa layer of the alimentary canal?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of mucus

Question 8

The hepatic portal circulation is important because it:

Accepted Answer

Collects nutrient-rich venous blood from digestive organs and delivers it to the liver for processing.

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why the mouth is lined with stratified squamous epithelium?

Accepted Answer

To withstand abrasions from food

Question 10

A patient has a blockage in the parotid duct. Which of the following is most likely to be affected?

Accepted Answer

Saliva secretion near the second upper molar

Question 11

Which of the following teeth are best adapted for grinding and crushing food?

Accepted Answer

Premolars and molars

Question 12

What is the main function of the periodontal ligament?

Accepted Answer

To anchor the tooth in the alveolus of the jaw

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct dental formula for permanent teeth in humans?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

Controls GI tract motility

Question 15

A patient with periodontitis is at risk for which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Loss of bone around the teeth due to immune response

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of saliva?

Accepted Answer

Breaks down starch with amylase

Question 17

Which of the following statements about the peritoneum is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

The peritoneal cavity lubricates digestive organs and allows them to slide across one another.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the mesentery?

Accepted Answer

It provides vascular and nerve supplies to the viscera and holds digestive organs in place.

Question 19

Which of the following is a plausible consequence of a failure in the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) in the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of infection in the digestive tract

Question 20

A patient with a deficiency in salivary amylase would have the most difficulty digesting which type of nutrient?

Accepted Answer

Carbohydrates

Digestive System: Structure and Function Overview

Study Guide - Practice Questions