Answer the following questions from your knowledge of the human digestive system - Leaving Cert Biology - Question (b) - 2019
Question (b)
Answer the following questions from your knowledge of the human digestive system.
(i) What is meant by the term digestion?
(ii) Give two reasons why digestion is n... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Answer the following questions from your knowledge of the human digestive system - Leaving Cert Biology - Question (b) - 2019
Step 1
What is meant by the term digestion?
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Answer
Digestion refers to the process of breaking down food into smaller, soluble molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. It involves both mechanical and chemical processes that convert food into forms that the body can utilize.
Step 2
Give two reasons why digestion is necessary.
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Answer
Digestion is necessary to make food soluble, allowing nutrients to be absorbed into the bloodstream efficiently.
It also converts food into smaller molecules, making them easier to transport to cells for energy and growth.
Step 3
Name and describe the method by which food is passed along the alimentary canal.
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The method by which food is passed along the alimentary canal is called peristalsis.
Peristalsis consists of muscular contractions of the walls of the alimentary canal, which create wave-like movements that push the food gradually through the digestive tract.
Step 4
Name an enzyme that digests dietary protein.
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Answer
The enzyme that digests dietary protein is protease, which can also be referred to as pepsin or another named protease.
Step 5
Where is this enzyme produced?
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This enzyme is produced in the stomach and can also be found in the small intestine, specifically in the duodenum or ileum, as well as in the pancreas.
Step 6
Where is this enzyme active?
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This enzyme is active in the stomach and the small intestine, particularly within the duodenum or ileum.
Step 7
Name the products formed by the complete digestion of a protein molecule.
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The products formed by the complete digestion of a protein molecule are amino acids.
Step 8
Name the blood vessel that transports these digestion products to the liver.
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The blood vessel that transports these digestion products to the liver is the hepatic portal vein.
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