Alimentary duct

Alimentary Duct

The alimentary duct or alimentary canal is a vital part of the digestive system in humans and many other animals. It is a complex tube that extends from the mouth to the anus, through which food and liquids pass during the process of digestion.

Structure

The alimentary duct is approximately 9 meters long in adults. It is composed of several sections, each with a specific function in the process of digestion. These sections include the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.

Mouth

The mouth is the entry point of the alimentary duct. It is responsible for the initial breakdown of food through the process of mastication (chewing), and the enzymatic action of saliva.

Pharynx

The pharynx is a muscular tube that connects the mouth to the esophagus. It serves as a pathway for the movement of food from the mouth to the esophagus.

Esophagus

The esophagus is a long, muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the pharynx to the stomach through a process known as peristalsis.

Stomach

The stomach is a large, muscular organ that plays a major role in the digestion of food. It secretes gastric juices that break down food particles into a semi-liquid substance known as chyme.

Small Intestine

The small intestine is the longest section of the alimentary duct. It is where most of the digestion and absorption of nutrients takes place.

Large Intestine

The large intestine is the final section of the alimentary duct. It absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter, and transmits the useless waste material from the body.

Function

The primary function of the alimentary duct is to transport food and liquids from the mouth to the anus, while breaking down the food into nutrients that can be absorbed and used by the body. This process involves several stages, including ingestion, digestion, absorption, and egestion.

See Also

• Digestive system
• Human gastrointestinal tract
• Peristalsis