Question

Which of the following describes the primary function of the pyloric sphincter?

A) to regulate the movement of digested food material from the stomach to the duodenum

B) to neutralize stomach acid

C) to prevent food materials and stomach acid from leaking into other bodily tissues

D) to begin the process of chemical digestion

Answer 1

The pyloric sphincter's primary function is to control the passage of digested food from the stomach to the duodenum, allowing optimal chemical digestion and preventing the small intestine from being overwhelmed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary function of the pyloric sphincter is A) to regulate the movement of digested food material from the stomach to the duodenum. This muscle acts as a gatekeeper that controls the flow of partially digested food, or chyme, ensuring that it enters the small intestine at a rate that can be efficiently managed. By adjusting its opening, the pyloric sphincter prevents the duodenum from being overwhelmed and facilitates the proper mixing of chyme with the digestive enzymes and bile in the small intestine, essential for optimal chemical digestion. The action of the pyloric sphincter is influenced by various factors including hormonal signals and the enterogastric reflex, which help in maintaining the digestive process.