Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

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What is the main role of the esophagus in the digestive system?

  1. Absorption of nutrients

  2. Transportation of food to the stomach

  3. Dissolving food

  4. Mixing food with digestive enzymes

The correct answer is: Transportation of food to the stomach

The primary function of the esophagus in the digestive system is to transport food from the mouth to the stomach. This is achieved through a series of muscular contractions known as peristalsis, which help push the food bolus down the esophagus. The esophagus acts as a conduit; it does not engage in nutrient absorption, chemical digestion, or mixing food with digestive enzymes, as those processes occur in other parts of the digestive system, such as the stomach and intestines. Therefore, the transportation role of the esophagus is essential for the continuation of the digestive process, ensuring that food reaches the stomach where further digestion occurs.

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