The physiology instructor is discussing the GI system with the pre-nursing class. What should the instructor describe as a major function of the GI tract?

Question

A) The breakdown of food particles into cell form for digestion
B) The maintenance of fluid and acid-base balance
C) The absorption into the bloodstream of nutrient molecules produced by digestion
D) The control of absorption and elimination of electrolytes

Answer 1

Ans: C
Feedback:
Primary functions of the GI tract include the breakdown of food particles into molecular form for digestion; the absorption into the bloodstream of small nutrient molecules produced by digestion; and the elimination of undigested unabsorbed food stuffs and other waste products. Nutrients must be broken down into molecular form, not cell form. Fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance are primarily under the control of the kidneys.