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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1:15 minutes

Problem 1

Textbook Question

More than one choice may apply.
Which of the following terms are synonyms?
a. Gastrointestinal tract
b. Digestive system
c. Digestive tract
d. Alimentary canal

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the definitions of each term: The 'gastrointestinal tract' refers specifically to the stomach and intestines, while the 'digestive system' includes all organs involved in digestion, such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and others.

Define the 'digestive tract': This term is often used interchangeably with 'alimentary canal' and refers to the continuous tube running from the mouth to the anus, including the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

Define the 'alimentary canal': This is another term for the digestive tract, emphasizing the pathway through which food travels during digestion.

Compare the terms: Note that 'gastrointestinal tract' is a subset of the 'digestive tract' or 'alimentary canal,' while the 'digestive system' is a broader term encompassing all structures involved in digestion.

Conclude which terms are synonyms: Based on the definitions, 'digestive tract' and 'alimentary canal' are synonyms, as they describe the same structure, while 'gastrointestinal tract' and 'digestive system' are related but not synonymous with each other or the other terms.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Gastrointestinal Tract

The gastrointestinal tract refers to the continuous tube that runs from the mouth to the anus, encompassing all the organs involved in digestion, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and rectum. It plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Digestive System

The digestive system includes all the organs and glands involved in the process of digestion, which encompasses the gastrointestinal tract as well as accessory organs like the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste.

Alimentary Canal

The alimentary canal is another term for the gastrointestinal tract, emphasizing the passage through which food travels. It includes the same organs and functions as the gastrointestinal tract, highlighting its role in the overall digestive process.