Chapter 22, Problem 1CYR

Which of the following is not one of the six basic processes carried out by the digestive system?

a. Propulsion

b. Gas exchange

c. Secretion

d. Absorption

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The digestive system in the human body helps in the breaking down of food components into smaller components after taking food into the body. It also helps in absorbing the fluid from the food to maintain electrolyte homeostasis of the body.

Answer to Problem 1CYR

Correct answer:

Gas exchange is the function of respiratory system, so not the function of digestive system.

Explanation of Solution

Justification/explanation for the correct answer:

Option (b) is gas exchange. The digestive system in the human body performs mainly six basic functions that are ingestion, secretion, digestion, propulsion, absorption, and defecation. The gas exchange is not a function of the digestive system. The gas exchange is a function of the respiratory system. Hence, option (b) is correct.

Explanation for the incorrect answers:

Option (a) is propulsion. It is one of the six basic processes carried out by the digestive system. In this process, the food and liquids are passed from one organ to another by the contractions of the smooth muscles. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (c) is secretion. It is also one of the six basic processes of the digestive system. The gland of endocrine origin or exocrine origin secretes mucus, enzymes, acid, and hormones which helps in the digestive processes. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (d) is absorption. Absorption is one of the six basic processes of the digestive system. The food particles are digested by mechanical and chemical means. The nutrients of the food are then moving across the wall into the blood or lymphatic vessels. So, it is an incorrect option.

Hence, options (a), (c), and (d) are incorrect.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that gas exchange is not one of the six basic processes carried out by the digestive system. The six processes are ingestion, secretion, digestion, propulsion, absorption, and defecation. The gas exchange is a function of the respiratory system.