Question

Peristalsis is the result of smooth muscle contractions. Defecation is the elimination of substances from the body. Propulsion is the movement of food through the alimentary canal through alternating waves of ________. Active transport is the use of energy by absorptive cells to carry nutrients from one side of the ________ to the other, where they are deposited into capillaries.

1) peristalsis
2) defecation
3) propulsion
4) active transport

Answer 1

Peristalsis is the rhythmic contraction of smooth muscles in the GI tract aiding food propulsion, while active transport involves energy expenditure to absorb nutrients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The movement of food through the alimentary canal is facilitated by a process known as peristalsis, which is characterized by alternating waves of contraction and relaxation of the smooth muscles in the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. These rhythmic contractions help not only in propelling food down the tract but also in mixing it with digestive juices, thus facilitating a more efficient digestive process. When it comes to the absorption of nutrients, active transport comes into play, where energy is utilized by the absorptive cells to transfer nutrients from one side of the cell membrane to the other, eventually leading to their uptake into the bloodstream.