Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What is the name of the muscular process for moving food down the oesophagus?

1. Respiration

2. Diffusion

3. Peristalsis

4. Engulfment

The correct answer is: Peristalsis

The process of moving food down the esophagus is called peristalsis. This is a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. When food is swallowed, it triggers a coordinated contraction in the smooth muscles lining the esophagus. These contractions push the food bolus down towards the stomach in a sequential manner. Peristalsis is essential for the digestive process, as it ensures that food is efficiently transported from the mouth, through the esophagus, and into the stomach for further digestion. This involuntary action involves both circular and longitudinal muscles, working in tandem to create the necessary movement. In contrast, respiration refers to the process of inhaling and exhaling air and is unrelated to the movement of food. Diffusion is a physical process where molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, often involved in the exchange of gases or nutrients but not in the mechanical movement of food. Engulfment generally refers to a process by which a cell surrounds and takes in particles, which does not pertain to the muscular action of moving food through the digestive system.