Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

A forward, rhythmic motion that propels a bolus from the esophagus through the GI tract using constricting muscles.

Question 2

Which accessory organ produces bile, stores nutrients, and detoxifies alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Liver

Question 3

What is the primary function of segmentation in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

To mix chyme with chemical secretions and increase the time food contacts intestinal walls.

Question 4

Which hormone stimulates the stomach to release hydrochloric acid (HCl) and gastric enzymes?

Accepted Answer

Gastrin

Question 5

A patient is experiencing heartburn due to a weak lower esophageal sphincter. Which condition is most likely present?

Accepted Answer

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Question 6

Which digestive enzyme is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates?

Accepted Answer

Amylase

Question 7

What is the main role of bile in digestion?

Accepted Answer

To break down large fat globules into smaller fat droplets for easier digestion.

Question 8

Which method of nutrient absorption requires both a carrier protein and energy to move nutrients from low to high concentration?

Accepted Answer

Active transport

Question 9

After absorption, which system primarily transports fat-soluble nutrients throughout the body?

Accepted Answer

Lymphatic system

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water and electrolytes, and elimination of waste.

Question 11

A person with celiac disease must avoid foods containing which substance to prevent autoimmune reactions?

Accepted Answer

Gluten

Question 12

Which of the following best explains the role of the nervous system in digestion?

Accepted Answer

It stimulates appetite and signals the brain to eat via hormones like ghrelin.

Question 13

Which process describes the movement of nutrients from an area of high concentration in the GI tract to a lower concentration in the intestinal cell, without energy or carrier proteins?

Accepted Answer

Passive diffusion

Question 14

Which organ produces bicarbonate to neutralize acidic chyme entering the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Pancreas

Question 15

If a person consumes a high-fat meal, which hormone is most likely to stimulate the pancreas to secrete digestive enzymes and slow gastric emptying?

Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

Question 16

Which of the following is a plausible consequence of insufficient fiber intake?

Accepted Answer

Constipation due to slow movement of intestinal matter.

Question 17

Which equation best represents the relationship between concentration gradient and passive diffusion in nutrient absorption?

Accepted Answer

$J = -D \frac{dC}{dx}$

Question 18

Which of the following is NOT a function of the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of most nutrients.

Question 19

A patient presents with swelling and inflammation in the veins of the rectum and anus. Which digestive disorder is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Hemorrhoids

Question 20

Which field of study investigates how specific food components interact with gene expression at the cellular level?

Accepted Answer

Nutritional genomics

The Basics of Digestion: Structure, Function, and Disorders

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards