| A | B |
|---|
| digestion | process by which large, complex molecules are broken down into smaller molecules that can be used by cells |
| digestive system | body system that digests food; includes mouth, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, intestines, liver, gallbladder, rectum, and anus |
| sphincter | ring of muscle that separates the different organs of the digestive system |
| esophagus | tube-shaped tissue of the digestive system that connects the mouth to the stomach |
| peristalsis | wavelike involuntary muscle contractions that push food through the organs of the digestive system |
| stomach | muscular sac in the digestive system that breaks down food into a liquid-like mixture |
| chyme | partially digested, semi-liquid mixture that passes from the stomach to the small intestine |
| small intestine | organ of the digestive system that connects the stomach to the large intestine and in which chemical digestion takes place |
| bile | fluid released by the liver and gallbladder into the small intestine that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats |
