How do different organs in the digestive system function to break down and absorb nutrients?

The digestive system breaks down and absorbs nutrients through the coordinated functions of various organs.

The process of digestion begins in the mouth, where food is mechanically broken down by teeth and mixed with saliva, which contains enzymes that begin to break down carbohydrates. The food then travels down the oesophagus and into the stomach, where it is mixed with stomach acid and digestive enzymes that break down proteins and fats.

From the stomach, the partially digested food enters the small intestine, where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs. The small intestine is lined with tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for nutrient absorption. Enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver and gallbladder aid in the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Nutrients are then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the liver for processing.

The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible material, forming solid feces that are eliminated through the rectum and anus.

Overall, the digestive system is a complex and coordinated system that involves the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food, as well as the absorption and transport of nutrients throughout the body. Understanding the functions of each organ involved in this process is crucial for understanding the overall function of the digestive system.