Digestive and Excretory Systems quick check

Answer 1

Sure! Here’s a quick overview of the digestive and excretory systems:

Digestive System

Function: The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste.

Main Organs:

1. Mouth: Begins digestion through chewing and saliva.
2. Esophagus: Transports food from the mouth to the stomach.
3. Stomach: Uses acids and enzymes to break down food.
4. Small Intestine: Continues digestion and absorbs nutrients; comprised of three parts: duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.
5. Large Intestine (Colon): Absorbs water and forms waste (feces).
6. Rectum: Stores feces until elimination.
7. Anus: The opening through which feces exits.

Accessory Organs:

• Liver: Produces bile, which helps digest fats.
• Gallbladder: Stores bile and releases it into the small intestine.
• Pancreas: Produces digestive enzymes and hormones (like insulin).

Excretory System (Urinary System)

Function: The excretory system removes waste products from the body and regulates water and electrolyte balance.

Main Organs:

1. Kidneys: Filter blood to produce urine, removing waste and excess substances.
2. Ureters: Transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
3. Urinary Bladder: Stores urine until it is excreted.
4. Urethra: The tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.

Key Points:

• Filtration: The kidneys filter blood in a process that forms urine, primarily in the nephron units.
• Homeostasis: The excretory system helps maintain the body’s internal balance of water, salts, and acids/bases.

Summary

• Digestive System: Breaks down food, absorbs nutrients, and excretes solid waste.
• Excretory System: Filters blood, removing liquid waste while maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.

If you have specific questions about either system or want more details, feel free to ask!