Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the small intestine in the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of nutrients and water into the bloodstream

Question 2

What is the main role of the hepatic portal system in digestion?

Accepted Answer

It transports nutrient-rich blood from the digestive tract to the liver for processing

Question 3

Which enzyme is responsible for the initial breakdown of starch in the mouth?

Accepted Answer

Salivary amylase

Question 4

A patient has difficulty absorbing vitamin B12. Which gastric secretion is most likely deficient?

Accepted Answer

Intrinsic factor

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why the stomach does not digest itself?

Accepted Answer

A thick layer of mucus protects the stomach lining from gastric juice

Question 6

Which process is responsible for propelling food through the esophagus to the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Absorption of remaining water and nutrients

Question 8

A person consumes a meal high in fat. Which accessory organ releases a substance that emulsifies these fats, and what is the substance?

Accepted Answer

Liver; bile

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the absorption of monosaccharides in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

By active transport into epithelial cells, then facilitated diffusion into capillaries

Question 10

Which vitamin is synthesized by intestinal microbiota in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin K

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events for the digestion and absorption of lipids?

Accepted Answer

Emulsification by bile → digestion by lipases → absorption as fatty acids and monoglycerides → reassembly into triglycerides → formation of chylomicrons → transport via lacteals

Question 12

Which of the following statements about dietary fiber is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It contributes bulk to feces and supports a healthy microbiota

Question 13

A person with a diet very low in linoleic and linolenic acids may experience problems with:

Accepted Answer

Cell membrane structure

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

Storage of fat-soluble vitamins and regulation of blood glucose

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the difference between complete and incomplete proteins?

Accepted Answer

Complete proteins contain all essential amino acids; incomplete proteins lack one or more essential amino acids

Question 16

Which mineral is a major component of bone and also plays a role in nerve and muscle activity?

Accepted Answer

Calcium

Question 17

A patient is unable to digest proteins efficiently due to a lack of stomach acid. Which enzyme's activity is most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Pepsin

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why trans fats are considered unhealthy?

Accepted Answer

They raise LDL cholesterol and are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease

Question 19

Which process is responsible for mixing food with digestive juices in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Segmentation

Question 20

Which of the following is a trace mineral required in the diet?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Digestive System: Structure, Function, and Nutrition

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