SCI 220 Human Nutrition

University of Phoenix Material

Human Digestion Worksheet

The Digestive System and its Functions

Review the diagram located on p. 1. In the space provided below, write the name of each organ or part,
and explain the function of each one as it relates to digestion and absorption. Explanations must be

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 SCI 220 Human Nutrition

written as complete sentences. Please make sure that you identify each organ or part below with the
corresponding number located in the diagram.

DIGESTIVE ANATOMY FUNCTION

1 Mouth The mouth is where food enters the body/digestive tract.
2 Salivary Glands Salivary glands are internal structures that produce and secrete the
saliva needed to aid in digestion.
3 Pharynx The pharynx is a passageway for food and air that is responsible for
swallowing.
4 Esophagus The esophagus is a portion of the gastrointestinal tract that connects
the pharynx to the stomach.
5 Epiglottis The epiglottis is the valve-like flap of tissue that prevents food from
entering the lungs.
6
7 Spleen
8 Stomach The stomach is an organ responsible for mixing food and secreting
gastric juices to partially digest foods.
9
10
11 Small Intestine The small intestine is a tube shaped organ which completes the
digestion of ingested food and the area in which nutrient absorption
occurs.
12 Liver
13 Gallbladder The gallbladder is an organ that stores bile produced by the liver.
14
15 Pancreas The pancreas is the organ that secretes digestive enzymes and
bicarbonate into the small intestine during digestion.
16
17 Appendix
18 Large Intestine The large intestine is an area of the digestive tract that includes the
colon and rectum; some water and vitamin absorption takes place in
this area.
19 Rectum
20 Anus The anus is the lower opening of the digestive tract in which feces
is expelled.

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