Chapter 22, Problem 1CYU

Name one organ of the alimentary canal found in the thorax. Name three organs located in the abdominal cavity.

Summary Introduction

To review:

The name of the alimentary canal organ present in the thorax region, and the three different organs that are present in the abdominal cavity.

Introduction:

The digestive organscan be categorized into two groups, namely, the alimentary canal and the accessory organs. The alimentary canal, is also referred to as the GI tract (gastrointestinal tract). It is the continuous muscular tube, extending from the mouth to the anus. It helps in digestion and absorption of food.

Explanation of Solution

Esophagus or the food pipe is the organ of the alimentary canal that is present in the thorax. The walls of the esophagus contain smooth muscles, which helps in peristaltic movement. Peristalsis is the movement caused by the alternate relaxation and contraction waves of the circulatory and longitudinal muscles, which aids in the forward movement of the food, that is, towards the stomach.

The 3 organs found in the abdominal cavity areas follows:

1. Stomach: It is a J-shaped bag-like structure, which helps in the temporary storage and mechanical distribution offood before it is movedinto the intestine. The walls of the stomach can expand or contract based on the presence of food and secreted gastric juices.

2. Small intestine: It is a long and highly coiled tube consisting of 3 regions, namely, duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Food from the stomach is passed into the small intestine and most of the absorption process takes place in this region. The walls of the small intestine have finger-like projections, called microvilli, for the absorption of food.

3. Large intestine: It consists of 3 regions, namely, cecum, colon, and rectum. Food from the small intestine moves to this region. The absorption of water and electrolytes occurs in the large intestine and fecal matter is stored in this regionuntil it is expelled out from the body.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that the esophagus (present in the thorax), stomach, small intestine, and the large intestine constitute the alimentary canal and participate in the processing and absorption of food in the body.