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Ch. 14 The Digestive System and Body Metabolism
Marieb - Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology 13th Edition
Marieb13th EditionEssentials of Human Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780135624340Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksMarieb 13th EditionCh. 14 The Digestive System and Body MetabolismProblem 1
Chapter 14, Problem 1

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
1
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.
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Introduction to the Digestive System Example 1

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.
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Functions of the Digestive System

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.
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Introduction to the Digestive System Example 1
Related Practice
Textbook Question

Match the letter of the digestive organ shown in the figure with its function.

___ produces bile

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Textbook Question

More than one choice may apply.

The GI tube tissue layer responsible for the actions of segmentation and peristalsis is the

a. Serosa

b. Mucosa

c. Muscularis externa

d. Submucosa

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Textbook Question

More than one choice may apply.

A digestive organ that is not part of the alimentary canal is the

a. Stomach

b. Liver

c. Small intestine

d. Large intestine

e. Pharynx

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