Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test Related

Review Anatomy and Physiology Hesi A2 Practice Test related questions and content

What is the function of the stomach in digestion?

  • A. To absorb nutrients
  • B. To break down food
  • C. To secrete digestive enzymes
  • D. To store glucose
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To break down food.' The stomach's primary function in digestion is to break down food mechanically and chemically. It accomplishes this by mixing food with gastric acid and digestive enzymes, resulting in the formation of chyme, a semi-liquid mixture that moves on to further digestion in the small intestine. Choice A is incorrect because the absorption of nutrients occurs mainly in the small intestine, not in the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because while the stomach does secrete digestive enzymes like pepsin, its primary role is not just limited to enzyme secretion. Choice D is incorrect because the storage of glucose primarily occurs in the liver and muscles, not in the stomach.