Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

To break down food, absorb nutrients into the bloodstream, and eliminate indigestible remains.

Question 2

Which layer of the alimentary canal is primarily responsible for nutrient absorption and secretion?

Accepted Answer

Mucosa

Question 3

A patient presents with difficulty swallowing and food getting stuck in the esophagus. Which muscular layer is most likely dysfunctional?

Accepted Answer

Muscularis externa

Question 4

Which of the following is a function of the liver related to digestion?

Accepted Answer

Production of bile for emulsification of fats

Question 5

Which of the following correctly matches the digestive process with its location?

Accepted Answer

Segmentation – Small intestine

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a function of saliva?

Accepted Answer

Emulsifying fats

Question 7

A patient has a deficiency in intrinsic factor. Which of the following is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Impaired absorption of vitamin B12

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the role of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in digestion?

Accepted Answer

It allows the gut to regulate motility and secretion independently of the central nervous system.

Question 9

Which of the following hormones is released by the duodenum in response to acidic chyme and stimulates the pancreas to release bicarbonate?

Accepted Answer

Secretin

Question 10

Which of the following structures increases the surface area of the small intestine for absorption?

Accepted Answer

Villi and microvilli

Question 11

A patient with a damaged myenteric plexus would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Reduced peristalsis and impaired motility of the GI tract

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why the esophagus has an adventitia rather than a serosa?

Accepted Answer

The adventitia anchors the esophagus to surrounding structures, providing support in the mediastinum.

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the flow of bile from the liver to the duodenum?

Accepted Answer

Bile canaliculi → bile ductules → right/left hepatic ducts → common hepatic duct → common bile duct → duodenum

Question 14

Which of the following cell types in the gastric glands is responsible for secreting pepsinogen?

Accepted Answer

Chief cells

Question 15

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

Accepted Answer

Reabsorption of water and electrolytes

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the role of the gut microbiota in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Fermentation of indigestible carbohydrates and synthesis of vitamins B and K

Question 17

During the process of swallowing, which structure prevents food from entering the airway?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why pepsinogen is secreted in an inactive form?

Accepted Answer

To prevent autodigestion of the stomach lining

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct pairing of a digestive enzyme and its substrate?

Accepted Answer

Pancreatic amylase – starch

Question 20

A patient with a blockage at the hepatopancreatic sphincter would most likely have difficulty digesting which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Fats, proteins, and carbohydrates

Digestive System: Structure, Function, and Regulation

Study Guide - Practice Questions