High School Biology : Digestive System

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for High School Biology

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Example Questions

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Example Question #5 : Understanding Hormones And Digestion

Which hormone is responsilbe for simulating the production of gastric acid in the stomach?

Possible Answers:

Gastrin

Motilin

CCK (cholecytokinin)

Amylase

Pepsin

Correct answer:

Gastrin

Explanation:

The presence of food in the stomach stimulates the release of gastrin, which stimulates the secretion of gastric acid (). The acid in the stomach aids in digestion, and also functions as a nonspecific line of defense from infection, destroying most pathogens. Cholecystokinin is a hormone produced by the small intestine, and is responsible for stimulating release of digestive enzymes by other gastrointestinal organs. Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down starch. Motilin is a hormone that aids in digestion via pathways other than stimulating production of gastric acid in the stomach. 

Example Question #1 : Understanding Hormones And Digestion

Which enzyme is responsible for the breakdown of startch?

Possible Answers:

Gastrin

Amylase

Pepsin

Lysozyme

Insulin

Correct answer:

Amylase

Explanation:

Amylase is the enzyme secreted in salvia and into the small intestine by the pancreas that breaks down startch. Insulin is a hormone released from the pancreas that decreases blood glucose levels. Lysozyme is an enzyme present in saliva, tears, and sweat, and functions as a natural antibacterial. Pepsin is an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of proteins. Gastrin is a hormone released by the cells of the gastrointestinal organs which stimulates secretion of  from the stomach, ultimately aiding in digestion. 

Example Question #2 : Understanding Hormones And Digestion

The number one stimulator for acid production in the stomach is __________.

Possible Answers:

eating salty food

not eating for several hours 

distention of the stomach

smelling food

Correct answer:

distention of the stomach

Explanation:

When food is swallowed and reaches the stomach, the distension of the stomach is the number one stimulator for acid production. Smelling food and chewing food does stimulate acid production, however, the rise in acid produced is not as significant as produced by distention of the stomach. 

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