Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

It anchors digestive organs to the body wall, provides a route for blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves, and stores fat.

Question 2

During peristalsis, which of the following occurs in the alimentary canal?

Accepted Answer

Adjacent segments contract and relax, propelling food distally along the tract.

Question 3

Which layer of the digestive tract contains the submucosal plexus, and what is its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Submucosa; regulates the activity of glands and smooth muscle in the mucosa and submucosa.

Question 4

Which of the following is a unique feature of the muscularis externa in the stomach compared to other parts of the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

It has an additional oblique muscle layer for enhanced mechanical breakdown.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

They produce mucus to protect and lubricate the lining of the tract.

Question 6

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 7

Which of the following is NOT a function of saliva?

Accepted Answer

Absorbing nutrients directly into the bloodstream.

Question 8

A patient presents with dry mouth (xerostomia). Which of the following is most likely to inhibit salivation?

Accepted Answer

Dehydration and strong sympathetic stimulation.

Question 9

Which of the following statements about dental tissues is correct?

Accepted Answer

Dentin is maintained by odontoblasts and is similar to bone but avascular.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the process of mastication?

Accepted Answer

It is a combined action of jaw, lips, cheeks, and tongue muscles, usually reflexive but can be controlled voluntarily.

Question 11

During swallowing (deglutition), which phase is voluntary and which is involuntary?

Accepted Answer

Buccal phase is voluntary; pharyngeal-esophageal phase is involuntary.

Question 12

Which of the following is a consequence of enamel-producing cells degenerating when teeth emerge?

Accepted Answer

Enamel cannot be replaced if damaged.

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a mechanism by which the stomach protects itself from its harsh acidic environment?

Accepted Answer

Production of digestive enzymes by goblet cells.

Question 15

Which cell type in the gastric glands secretes hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor?

Accepted Answer

Parietal cells

Question 16

What is the primary role of intrinsic factor secreted by parietal cells?

Accepted Answer

To facilitate absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of the hepatic portal circulation?

Accepted Answer

It drains nutrient-rich blood from digestive organs and delivers it directly to the liver for processing.

Question 18

Which of the following papillae on the tongue are primarily responsible for providing friction for manipulating foods?

Accepted Answer

Filiform papillae

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

Starch (carbohydrates)

Question 20

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

Accepted Answer

It controls the motility of the muscularis externa, including peristalsis and segmentation.

Digestive System: Structure, Function, and Processes

Study Guide - Practice Questions