This key facts covers Associated Digestive Organs within The Human Digestive System for GCSE Biology. Structure and function of digestive organs, mechanical and chemical digestion, enzymes, absorption, and practical investigations It is section 5 of 15 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Associated Digestive Organs
Liver - The Chemical Factory
- Bile Production: Makes bile to emulsify fats (breaks large fat drops into smaller ones)
- Detoxification: Removes toxins from blood
- Storage: Stores vitamins, minerals, and glucose as glycogen
- Metabolism: Processes nutrients from the digestive system
Pancreas - The Enzyme Producer
- Digestive Enzymes: Produces amylase, lipase, and proteases
- Alkaline Juice: Neutralizes acidic chyme from stomach
- Hormone Production: Makes insulin and glucagon (endocrine function)
Gall Bladder - The Storage Tank
- Bile Storage: Concentrates and stores bile from liver
- Release Control: Releases bile when fats are detected in small intestine
Practice questions for The Human Digestive System
Which organ produces hydrochloric acid to kill bacteria in food?
Explain the role of bile in the digestive system.
Quick recall flashcards
What are villi?
Villi are tiny finger-like projections on the wall of the small intestine that greatly increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.
What is peristalsis?
Peristalsis is the wave-like contractions of smooth muscle that push food through the digestive system. Circular muscles contract behind food while longitudinal muscles relax in front.