Digestive system

• Mouth


  • Where chemical digestion of carbohydrates begins
  • Also called the oral cavity
  • Mechanical digestion with the teeth and tongue
• Pharynx


  • The area behind the nose and mouth
  • The food bolus passes through this structure before entering the esophagus
  • Common passageways for food, air, and liquids
• Esophagus

  • Extends from the pharynx to the Stomach
  • Passes through the diaphragm
  • Posterior to the trachea
• Stomach


  • Muscle contractions contribute to mechanical digestion
  • J-shaped muscular organ
  • Where chyme is formed
• Small Intestine


  • Contains structural modifications to increase surface area for absorption
  • Where almost all absorption comes from
  • Longest part of the Gl tract
• Large Intestine


  • Extends from small intestine to the anus
  • Absorbs water and a few other substances
  • Dries out indigestible food residue to produce solid waste
• Pancreas

  • Produces juices that enter the duodenum through the pancreatic duct
  • Contains powerful enzymes that break down all types of nutrients
• Gall Bladder


  • Stores bile
  • Releases bile into the duodenum
• Liver


  • Produces bile
  • Largest internal organ