In 3-5 sentences, explain the role of the digestive system in animals, as well as how the system works.(4 points)

Answer 1

The digestive system in animals is responsible for breaking down food into nutrients that can be absorbed and utilized by the body for energy, growth, and repair. It begins with the ingestion of food, which is mechanically and chemically processed in the mouth and then travels through the esophagus to the stomach. In the stomach, strong acids and enzymes further break down the food, which is then released into the small intestine, where most nutrient absorption occurs through specialized villi. Finally, undigested materials pass into the large intestine, where water is reabsorbed, and waste is eliminated from the body.