Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a function of the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Hormone synthesis

Question 2

Which layer of the digestive tract is responsible for peristalsis and segmentation?

Accepted Answer

Muscularis externa

Question 3

A patient presents with jaundice, edema, and uncontrolled bleeding. Which liver disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Cirrhosis

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the role of villi in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for absorption.

Question 5

Which hormone is released when fats or carbohydrates enter the duodenum and inhibits gastric activity?

Accepted Answer

Gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP)

Question 6

During which phase of swallowing does the soft palate close off the nasopharynx?

Accepted Answer

Buccal phase

Question 7

Which of the following is a characteristic of visceral smooth muscle tissue?

Accepted Answer

Fibers are electrically connected by gap junctions

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why the stomach has an additional oblique muscle layer?

Accepted Answer

To enhance the mixing and churning of food

Question 9

A patient with a failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to close properly is likely to experience which condition?

Accepted Answer

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Question 10

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

The small intestine absorbs about 90% of nutrients.

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of the liver related to digestion?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of bile

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the process of peristalsis?

Accepted Answer

A wave of muscular contractions that propels a bolus forward

Question 13

Which structure prevents food from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Soft palate

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water and vitamins

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of the gallbladder?

Accepted Answer

It stores and concentrates bile.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct pairing of a digestive hormone and its primary effect?

Accepted Answer

Secretin – increases bile secretion

Question 17

Which of the following is a unique feature of the histology of the stomach compared to the rest of the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Three layers of smooth muscle in the muscularis externa

Question 18

Which of the following is a likely consequence of portal hypertension?

Accepted Answer

Distension and rupture of small peripheral veins

Question 19

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the defecation reflex?

Accepted Answer

It is a parasympathetic reflex aided by voluntary muscle contraction.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the function of the enteric nervous system in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

It controls movement and secretions of the GI tract.

Digestive System: Structure, Function, and Regulation

Study Guide - Practice Questions