Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

23. The Digestive System

Introduction to the Digestive System

Anatomy & Physiology

23. The Digestive System

Introduction to the Digestive System

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Multiple Choice

What is the slow, wavelike contraction that moves food through the digestive system called?

Segmentation

Mastication

Absorption

Peristalsis

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Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the key terms provided in the question. Segmentation refers to localized contractions in the intestines that mix food with digestive juices but does not move food forward. Mastication is the process of chewing food in the mouth. Absorption is the process of nutrients being absorbed into the bloodstream or lymph from the digestive tract.

Step 2: Focus on the term 'slow, wavelike contraction' mentioned in the question. This description aligns with the process of peristalsis, which involves rhythmic contractions of smooth muscle in the walls of the digestive tract to propel food forward.

Step 3: Recall the anatomy of the digestive system. Peristalsis occurs in organs such as the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, where smooth muscle contractions push food along the digestive tract.

Step 4: Understand the physiological mechanism of peristalsis. It involves alternating contraction and relaxation of circular and longitudinal muscle layers in the digestive tract, creating a wave-like motion.

Step 5: Confirm that peristalsis is the correct answer by comparing it to the other options. Segmentation mixes food but does not move it forward, mastication occurs in the mouth, and absorption happens after food is broken down. Peristalsis is the only process that matches the description of moving food through the digestive system in a slow, wavelike manner.