Learning Objectives
You should be able to:
(a)describe the functions of main regions of the alimentary canal and the associated organs: mouth, salivary glands, oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, pancreas, gall bladder, liver, ileum, colon, rectum, anus, in relation to ingestion, digestion, absorption, assimilation and egestion of food, as appropriate (b) describe peristalsis in terms of rhythmic wave-like contractions of the muscles to mix and propel the contents of the alimentary canal (c) describe the functions of enzymes (e.g. amylase, maltase, protease, lipase) in digestion, listing the substrates and end-products (d) describe the structure of a villus and its role, including the role of capillaries and lacteals in absorption (e) state the function of the hepatic portal vein as the transport of blood rich in absorbed nutrients from the small intestine to the liver (f) state the role of the liver in • carbohydrate metabolism • fat digestion • breakdown of red blood cells • metabolism of amino acids and the formation of urea • breakdown of alcohol (g) describe the effects of excessive consumption of alcohol: reduced self-control, depressant, effect on reaction times, damage to liver and social implications |
Home-based Research & Learning
Brain Squeeze!
The Alimentary Canal - Digestion & Absorption
*WARNING!* This video shows the path of our alimentary canal. It is recommended that you do not eat while watching this :)
Points to take note in this video:
- Where does digestion start?
- What are the 2 types of digestion?
- What are the organs involved?
- What are the roles of the various organs and enzymes/ chemicals?