Question 1

Which of the following best describes the process of peristalsis in the gastrointestinal tract?

Accepted Answer

It is the rhythmic contraction of circular and longitudinal muscles that propels food forward through the GI tract.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Amylase

Question 3

What is the primary function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus

Question 4

Which hormone stimulates the release of gastric juices in the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Gastrin

Question 5

A patient with lactose intolerance experiences bloating and diarrhea after consuming milk. What is the underlying cause?

Accepted Answer

Lactose is not digested in the small intestine and is fermented by bacteria in the large intestine, producing gas and irritation.

Question 6

Which of the following nutrients is absorbed into the lymphatic system rather than directly into the bloodstream?

Accepted Answer

Long-chain fatty acids

Question 7

What is the main role of bile in digestion?

Accepted Answer

To emulsify fats, increasing their surface area for digestion by lipase

Question 8

Which process requires both energy and a carrier protein to move nutrients against a concentration gradient?

Accepted Answer

Active transport

Question 9

A patient is diagnosed with celiac disease. What is the primary pathological mechanism?

Accepted Answer

An autoimmune response to gluten causing inflammation of the small intestine

Question 10

Which of the following best describes segmentation in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Contractions of circular muscles that mix chyme and increase contact with absorptive cells

Question 11

Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver in nutrient transport?

Accepted Answer

Absorbing fat-soluble nutrients directly from the small intestine

Question 12

Which of the following statements about the absorption of nutrients is correct?

Accepted Answer

Water-soluble nutrients are absorbed into capillaries, while fat-soluble nutrients are absorbed into lymphatic lacteals.

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why a diet low in FODMAPs may help patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Accepted Answer

FODMAPs are poorly absorbed carbohydrates that can be fermented by gut bacteria, causing gas and bloating.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the flow of blood from the digestive tract to the heart?

Accepted Answer

Digestive tract capillaries → hepatic portal vein → liver → hepatic vein → inferior vena cava → heart

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of the enteric nervous system in the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

It regulates peristalsis and secretion of enzymes and mucus independently of the central nervous system.

Question 16

A patient has a mutation that prevents the secretion of cholecystokinin (CCK). Which of the following digestive processes would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Emulsification and digestion of fats

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct description of facilitated diffusion in nutrient absorption?

Accepted Answer

It requires a specific carrier protein but does not require energy.

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water, salts, and some vitamins

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why some micronutrients can be absorbed sublingually?

Accepted Answer

The mucous membrane under the tongue is highly vascularized, allowing direct entry into the bloodstream.

Question 20

Which of the following statements about probiotics and prebiotics is correct?

Accepted Answer

Probiotics are live beneficial microbes, while prebiotics are substances that support the growth of these microbes.

Digestion, Absorption, and Transport: The Human Body & Digestion

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