Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the parietal cells in the gastric glands of the stomach?

Accepted Answer

They produce intrinsic factor, necessary for vitamin B12 absorption, and secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl).

Question 2

A patient presents with difficulty absorbing vitamin B12, leading to anemia. Which gastric cell type is most likely malfunctioning, and what is the physiological consequence?

Accepted Answer

Parietal cells; lack of intrinsic factor prevents vitamin B12 absorption.

Question 3

During swallowing (deglutition), which phase involves the voluntary movement of the bolus from the oral cavity into the oropharynx?

Accepted Answer

Buccal phase

Question 4

Which enzyme, secreted in the oral cavity, begins the chemical digestion of carbohydrates?

Accepted Answer

Salivary amylase

Question 5

A patient with a malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter is most likely to experience which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Gastric reflux, where stomach acid enters the esophagus

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why the stomach does not absorb significant amounts of nutrients?

Accepted Answer

The stomach lining lacks villi and has a thick mucus layer, limiting absorption.

Question 7

Which structure prevents food from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Uvula

Question 8

A dentist notes that a patient’s enamel is eroded, exposing the underlying dentin. What is the primary consequence of this condition?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of tooth decay due to loss of the hardest protective layer

Question 9

Which of the following is the correct sequence of tooth eruption in humans?

Accepted Answer

Primary teeth, adult teeth, wisdom teeth

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the role of the periodontal ligament?

Accepted Answer

It anchors the tooth to the alveolar bone, allowing slight movement during chewing.

Question 11

A patient is unable to digest proteins efficiently due to a deficiency in a stomach enzyme. Which enzyme is most likely deficient, and what is its precursor?

Accepted Answer

Pepsin; precursor is pepsinogen

Question 12

Which of the following best explains the 'alkaline tide' that occurs after a meal?

Accepted Answer

Parietal cells secrete HCl into the stomach and bicarbonate ions into the blood, raising blood pH.

Question 13

Which of the following tooth types is primarily responsible for tearing food during mastication?

Accepted Answer

Cuspids (canines)

Question 14

During the esophageal phase of swallowing, which process moves the bolus toward the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of lysozyme in saliva?

Accepted Answer

It breaks down bacterial cell walls, providing antimicrobial protection.

Question 16

A patient has a blockage at the pyloric sphincter. Which of the following is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Impaired movement of chyme from the stomach to the duodenum

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why infants produce rennin in the stomach?

Accepted Answer

To coagulate milk proteins, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct chemical equation for the formation of carbonic acid in parietal cells, which is essential for HCl production?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{CO_2$ + H_2O \rightarrow H_2CO_3}$$

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of buffers in saliva?

Accepted Answer

They maintain the pH of the oral cavity, protecting teeth from acid erosion.

Question 20

A patient with damage to the soft palate may have difficulty with which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Preventing food from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing

Upper Digestive Pathway: Structure and Function (Module 7: Part 2)

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