HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Quizlet 2024 Related

Review HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Quizlet 2024 related questions and content

Through which organ do muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis?

  • A. Mouth
  • B. Small intestine
  • C. Epiglottis
  • D. Esophagus
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Esophagus. Muscles push food into the stomach via peristalsis in the esophagus. Peristalsis is a coordinated muscular contraction that helps move food from the mouth to the stomach through the esophagus. The rhythmic contractions of the esophageal muscles create a wave-like motion that propels food downward toward the stomach for digestion. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the mouth is where digestion begins but does not push food into the stomach, the small intestine is mainly responsible for absorbing nutrients, and the epiglottis is a flap that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing, not involved in pushing food into the stomach.