Question

H. Organs of the digestive system Describe the functions each of the following components of the

digestive system. Pay specific attention the part each one plays in the functions of the digestive system
(ie what gets digested, what type of digestion occurs, or how structures aid in absorption in each
location).
1. Mouth
2. Stomach
3. Duodenum
4. Jejunum
5. liem
6
large intestine

Answer 1

The digestive system consists of different components with specific functions. The mouth starts mechanical and chemical digestion, while the stomach continues breaking down food. The small intestine is responsible for further digestion and nutrient absorption, while the large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the digestive system, each component plays a specific role in the digestion and absorption process. Let's explore each component and their functions:

1. Mouth: The mouth is responsible for both mechanical and chemical digestion. Mechanical digestion begins here as the teeth break down food into smaller pieces, while chemical digestion starts with the release of saliva containing enzymes like amylase that help break down carbohydrates.
2. Stomach: The stomach continues the process of mechanical and chemical digestion. It churns and mixes the food with gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid and enzymes like pepsin, which break down proteins into smaller peptides.
3. Duodenum: The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine, where further digestion and absorption occur. Bile from the liver and enzymes from the pancreas are delivered here. Bile helps emulsify fats, while pancreatic enzymes aid in breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
4. Jejunum: The jejunum is the middle part of the small intestine, responsible for the majority of nutrient absorption. Its walls are lined with finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area for absorption.
5. Ileum: The ileum is the final part of the small intestine, where further nutrient absorption takes place. It absorbs nutrients that were not absorbed in the jejunum, particularly vitamin B12 and bile salts.
6. Large Intestine: The large intestine, also known as the colon, primarily functions to absorb water and electrolytes from digested food, forming feces. It also houses beneficial bacteria that aid in the fermentation of undigested fibers and the production of certain vitamins.

Learn more about Functions of digestive system components