Final answer:
The ileocecal sphincter must relax to allow chyme to pass from the small intestine into the cecum, which is part of the large intestine. This process is important for proper digestion and is regulated by both neural and hormonal factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'In order for chyme to enter the cecum, it must pass through the ileocecal sphincter' is true. The ileocecal valve, a sphincter, is usually in a constricted state to prevent the backflow of contents from the large intestine into the small intestine. However, when motility in the ileum increases, often as a result of the gastroileal reflex and the hormone gastrin, this sphincter relaxes, allowing the chyme to move from the small intestine into the first part of the large intestine, known as the cecum. After the chyme passes through, backward pressure helps close the sphincter again. Therefore, control of this sphincter is essential for the proper progression of digestion.