GI Physiology Quiz Questions

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Rejust
R
Rejust
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 3 | Total Attempts: 20,740
| Attempts: 19,646
Quiz Flashcard
SettingsSettings
Please wait...
  • 1/38 Questions

    Contraction of the circular layer causes the lumen to become narrower.

    • True
    • False
Please wait...
About This Quiz


Have you studied the topic of Gastrointestinal (GI) Physiology in your biology class, or are you learning it now? In both cases, play this GI Physiology quiz with detailed questions and answers. We have designed this well-researched quiz to check your understanding of Gastrointestinal Physiology and its related concepts. Let's see if you can score more than 70% and pass this test. We wish you good luck! Hope you'll find this test useful.

GI Physiology Quiz Questions - Quiz

Quiz Preview

  • 2. 

    What is the most common type of motility associated with the esophagus?

    • Haustrations

    • Antipropulsive movements

    • Mass movement

    • Perisatalsis

    • Segmentation

    Correct Answer
    A. Perisatalsis
    Explanation
    Peristalsis is the most common type of motility associated with the esophagus. It is a coordinated contraction and relaxation of the muscles that helps propel food from the mouth to the stomach. This rhythmic movement allows for efficient swallowing and prevents food from regurgitating back into the mouth. Peristalsis is essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system and ensures that food is transported smoothly through the esophagus.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    Which controls gut motility?

    • Submucosal plexus (Messiner's)

    • Myenteric plexus (Auerbach's)

    Correct Answer
    A. Myenteric plexus (Auerbach's)
    Explanation
    The myenteric plexus, also known as Auerbach's plexus, controls gut motility. It is a network of nerve fibers located between the longitudinal and circular muscle layers of the gastrointestinal tract. The myenteric plexus regulates the contractions and movements of the gut, coordinating the peristaltic waves that propel food through the digestive system. It plays a crucial role in regulating the speed and coordination of gut motility, ensuring efficient digestion and absorption of nutrients.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    Which controls gut secretions?

    • Submucosal plexus (Messiner's)

    • Myenteric plexus (Auerbach's)

    Correct Answer
    A. Submucosal plexus (Messiner's)
    Explanation
    The submucosal plexus, also known as Messiner's plexus, controls gut secretions. This plexus is located in the submucosal layer of the gastrointestinal tract and is responsible for regulating the secretion of enzymes, mucus, and fluid into the gut lumen. It receives signals from the central nervous system and coordinates the release of these secretions to aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients. The myenteric plexus, or Auerbach's plexus, on the other hand, primarily controls gut motility and the contraction of smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    Intrinsic stimulation (ENS) of the large intestine via release of Ach and substance P causes?

    • Inhibition of colonic movement

    • Stimulation of colonic movement

    Correct Answer
    A. Stimulation of colonic movement
    Explanation
    The intrinsic stimulation of the large intestine through the release of Ach and substance P causes the stimulation of colonic movement. Ach and substance P are neurotransmitters that play a role in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction in the intestines. When released, they promote the contraction of the colonic muscles, leading to an increase in colonic movement. This stimulation helps propel the contents of the large intestine forward, aiding in the process of digestion and elimination.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    Contraction of the longitudinal layer causes the lumen to become narrower.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Contraction of the longitudinal layer causes the length of the GI tract to become shorter.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    The_____layer of GI smooth muscle exhibits stronger constrictions because it has more gap junctions.

    • Circular

    • Longitudinal

    Correct Answer
    A. Circular
    Explanation
    The circular layer of GI smooth muscle exhibits stronger constrictions because it has more gap junctions. Gap junctions are specialized protein channels that allow for direct communication and coordination between adjacent cells. In the circular layer, the presence of more gap junctions enables a stronger and more coordinated contraction of the smooth muscle, leading to a more effective constriction of the gastrointestinal tract.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    What is the type of motility that occurs in the small intestine to facilitate mixing.  It is basically a bidirectional form of peristalsis?

    • Haustrations

    • Antipropulsive movements

    • Mass movement

    • Perisatalsis

    • Segmentation

    Correct Answer
    A. Segmentation
    Explanation
    Segmentation is the correct answer because it refers to the type of motility that occurs in the small intestine to facilitate mixing. Segmentation involves the contraction and relaxation of different segments of the intestine, which helps to mix the food and digestive juices together. This process is bidirectional, as it moves the contents of the intestine back and forth, allowing for thorough mixing and absorption of nutrients.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    Intrinsic stimulation (ENS) of the large intestine via release of VIP and NO causes?

    • Inhibition of colonic movement

    • Stimulation of colonic movement

    Correct Answer
    A. Inhibition of colonic movement
    Explanation
    The correct answer is inhibition of colonic movement. Intrinsic stimulation of the large intestine through the release of VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide) and NO (nitric oxide) leads to the inhibition of colonic movement. VIP and NO act as inhibitory neurotransmitters, causing relaxation of the smooth muscles in the colon and reducing peristalsis, which results in a decrease in colonic movement. This helps in the absorption of water and electrolytes from the fecal matter, allowing for the formation of solid stool.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    Which of the following conditions is most likely to stimulate the secretion of cholecystokinin (CCK) from the duodenal mucosa? 

    • Elevated amino acids in the gut

    • Elevated free fatty acids in the gut

    • Elevated glucose in the gut

    • High pH in the gut

    • Hypotonicity in the gut

    Correct Answer
    A. Elevated free fatty acids in the gut
    Explanation
    Elevated free fatty acids in the gut are most likely to stimulate the secretion of cholecystokinin (CCK) from the duodenal mucosa. CCK is a hormone released in response to the presence of fat in the small intestine. It stimulates the release of bile from the gallbladder and pancreatic enzymes, which aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. Therefore, when there are elevated levels of free fatty acids in the gut, it signals the need for increased secretion of CCK to facilitate fat digestion and absorption.

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

    What is the primary pre-ganglionic neurotransmitter in the SNS (sympathetic) nervous system?

    • Ach

    • NE

    • Epi

    • NO

    Correct Answer
    A. Ach
    Explanation
    The primary pre-ganglionic neurotransmitter in the sympathetic nervous system is Ach (acetylcholine). Acetylcholine is released by the preganglionic neurons and binds to nicotinic receptors on the postganglionic neurons. This neurotransmitter is responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the ganglia in the sympathetic nervous system.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

    The muscularis mucosa (a sublayer of the mucosa) both consists primarily of?

    • Loose connective tissue

    • Intestinal smooth muscle

    • Areolar connective tissue

    • Squamous mesothelial cells

    Correct Answer
    A. Intestinal smooth muscle
    Explanation
    The muscularis mucosa is a sublayer of the mucosa that is primarily composed of intestinal smooth muscle. This layer is responsible for the movement and contraction of the mucosa, which helps with the absorption and digestion of nutrients in the intestines. The presence of smooth muscle in the muscularis mucosa allows for coordinated contractions that aid in the movement of food through the digestive tract. Therefore, the correct answer is intestinal smooth muscle.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    In which of the tunics of the GI system would you find glands?

    • Mucosa

    • Submucosa

    • Muscularis externa

    • Serosa

    Correct Answer
    A. Submucosa
    Explanation
    The submucosa is the correct answer because it is the layer of the gastrointestinal (GI) system that contains glands. The submucosa is located beneath the mucosa and is made up of connective tissue. It contains various glands, including the submucosal glands, which secrete mucus and other substances that aid in digestion and protect the GI tract. The other layers of the GI system, including the mucosa, muscularis externa, and serosa, do not typically contain glands.

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

    Extrinsic stimulation (ANS) of the large intestine through the vagus nerve (PNS) causes?

    • Inhibition of colonic movement

    • Haustrations

    • Mass movements

    Correct Answer
    A. Haustrations
    Explanation
    Extrinsic stimulation of the large intestine through the vagus nerve causes haustrations. Haustrations refer to the contractions and relaxations of the muscles in the colon that create the characteristic pouch-like structures called haustra. This stimulation leads to the segmentation of the colon, allowing for the mixing and absorption of water and electrolytes. These haustral contractions also help in the movement of feces through the colon, promoting efficient digestion and elimination.

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    What is the most common type of motility associated with the small intestine?

    • Haustrations

    • Antipropulsive movements

    • Mass movement

    • Perisatalsis

    • Segmentation

    Correct Answer
    A. Segmentation
    Explanation
    Segmentation is the most common type of motility associated with the small intestine. Segmentation refers to the contraction and relaxation of the circular muscles in the intestinal wall, which helps to mix and break down food, as well as facilitate absorption of nutrients. This type of motility creates small segments or compartments within the intestine, allowing for efficient digestion and absorption of nutrients.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

    The lamina propria (a sublayer of the mucosa) and the submucosa both consist primarily of?

    • Loose connective tissue

    • Intestinal smooth muscle

    • Areolar connective tissue

    • Squamous mesothelial cells

    Correct Answer
    A. Loose connective tissue
    Explanation
    The lamina propria and submucosa are both layers of the mucosa. The mucosa is the innermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract that lines the lumen. The lamina propria and submucosa are composed primarily of loose connective tissue. Loose connective tissue is a type of connective tissue that contains a network of collagen and elastic fibers, as well as various cells, such as fibroblasts and immune cells. It provides support, flexibility, and allows for the movement of substances through the mucosa.

    Rate this question:

  • 17. 

    Extrinsic stimulation (ANS) of the large intestine through the vagus nerve (PNS) causes?

    • Inhibition of colonic movement

    • Haustrations

    • Mass movements

    Correct Answer
    A. Haustrations
    Explanation
    Extrinsic stimulation of the large intestine through the vagus nerve causes haustrations. Haustrations refer to the formation of pouches or sacs in the colon, which aid in the mixing and propulsion of fecal matter. The vagus nerve, part of the parasympathetic nervous system, plays a role in regulating gastrointestinal motility. Stimulation of the vagus nerve leads to increased activity in the colon, resulting in the formation of haustra. This helps to facilitate the movement of feces through the large intestine.

    Rate this question:

  • 18. 

    What is the type of motility that occurs in the small intestine to move chime caudally?

    • Haustrations

    • Antipropulsive movements

    • Mass movement

    • Perisatalsis

    • Segmentation

    Correct Answer
    A. Perisatalsis
    Explanation
    Peristalsis is the type of motility that occurs in the small intestine to move chyme caudally. Peristalsis is a coordinated contraction and relaxation of the smooth muscles in the intestinal wall, which propels the chyme in a wave-like motion through the digestive tract. This movement helps to mix and churn the chyme, aiding in digestion and absorption of nutrients.

    Rate this question:

  • 19. 

    What is the primary post-ganglionic neurotransmitter in the SNS (sympathetic) nervous system?

    • Ach

    • NE

    • Epi

    • NO

    Correct Answer
    A. NE
    Explanation
    The primary post-ganglionic neurotransmitter in the sympathetic (SNS) nervous system is NE (norepinephrine). This neurotransmitter is released by post-ganglionic neurons and binds to adrenergic receptors in target organs, activating the fight-or-flight response. NE plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including heart rate, blood pressure, and pupil dilation.

    Rate this question:

  • 20. 

    In which layer would you find plexuses of the enteric nervous system?

    • Mucosa

    • Submucosa (Meissner's plexus)

    • Myenteric (Auerbach's plexus)

    • Both B and C

    Correct Answer
    A. Both B and C
    Explanation
    Plexuses of the enteric nervous system are found in the submucosal (Meissner's plexus) and myenteric (Auerbach's plexus) layers of the gastrointestinal tract. These plexuses play a crucial role in regulating various gastrointestinal functions, including motility, secretion, and blood flow.

    Rate this question:

  • 21. 

    Extrinsic stimulation (ANS) of the large intestine through the mesenteric and hypogastric nerves (SNS) causes?

    • Inhibition of colonic movement

    • Haustrations

    • Mass movements

    Correct Answer
    A. Inhibition of colonic movement
    Explanation
    Extrinsic stimulation of the large intestine through the mesenteric and hypogastric nerves, which are part of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), leads to the inhibition of colonic movement. This means that the SNS activation reduces the contractions and movements of the colon, resulting in a decrease in colonic motility.

    Rate this question:

  • 22. 

    Which of the following conditions is most likely to stimulate the secretion of secretin from the duodenal mucosa? 

    • Elevated amino acids in the gut

    • Elevated free fatty acids in the gut

    • Elevated glucose in the gut

    • Low pH in the gut

    • Hypotonicity in the gut

    Correct Answer
    A. Low pH in the gut
    Explanation
    The presence of a low pH (high acidity) in the gut, primarily caused by the entry of gastric acid from the stomach, serves as a stimulus for the secretion of secretin from the duodenal mucosa. Secretin, in response to this acidic environment, triggers the pancreas to release bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juices, aiding in neutralizing the acidity and creating an optimal pH for digestive processes in the small intestine.

    Rate this question:

  • 23. 
    What is the parasympathetic innervation of the cecum, ascending colon, and transverse colon? - ProProfs

    What is the parasympathetic innervation of the cecum, ascending colon, and transverse colon?

    • Vagus n.

    • Pelvic n.

    • Superior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior hypogastric n.

    • Superior hypogastric n.

    Correct Answer
    A. Vagus n.
    Explanation
    The vagus nerve provides parasympathetic innervation to the cecum, ascending colon, and transverse colon. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for rest and digest functions, and the vagus nerve plays a key role in regulating these processes in the gastrointestinal tract. It stimulates smooth muscle contractions and increases blood flow to promote digestion and absorption of nutrients in these parts of the colon.

    Rate this question:

  • 24. 

    Which of the following conditions is most likely to stimulate the secretion of gastrin from the duodenal mucosa? 

    • Elevated amino acids in the gut

    • Elevated free fatty acids in the gut

    • Elevated glucose in the gut

    • High pH in the gut

    • Hypotonicity in the gut

    Correct Answer
    A. High pH in the gut
    Explanation
    The condition most likely to stimulate the secretion of gastrin from the duodenal mucosa is high pH in the gut. Gastrin is a hormone that plays a role in stimulating the release of gastric acid in the stomach. When the pH in the stomach becomes relatively high (less acidic), it triggers the release of gastrin from the duodenal mucosa. Gastrin then acts to increase the secretion of gastric acid, helping to lower the pH and maintain the proper acidic environment for digestion.

    Rate this question:

  • 25. 
    What is the parasympathetic innervation of the descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and anal canal? - ProProfs

    What is the parasympathetic innervation of the descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and anal canal?

    • Vagus n.

    • Pelvic n.

    • Superior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior hypogastric n.

    • Superior hypogastric n.

    Correct Answer
    A. Pelvic n.
    Explanation
    The parasympathetic innervation of the descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and anal canal is provided by the pelvic nerves. These nerves originate from the sacral spinal cord and travel through the pelvic plexus to reach the target organs. The parasympathetic fibers in the pelvic nerves help regulate various functions of the gastrointestinal tract, including smooth muscle contractions, glandular secretions, and blood flow. Therefore, the pelvic nerves are responsible for the parasympathetic control of the descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and anal canal.

    Rate this question:

  • 26. 

    What is the most common type of motility associated with the descending colon?

    • Haustrations

    • Antipropulsive movements

    • Mass movement

    • Perisatalsis

    • Segmentation

    Correct Answer
    A. Haustrations
    Explanation
    Haustrations refer to the rhythmic contractions and relaxations of the circular muscles in the colon, which help to create the characteristic pouches or haustra in the descending colon. This type of motility is the most common in the descending colon and is responsible for moving fecal matter through the colon for eventual elimination.

    Rate this question:

  • 27. 
    What is the sympathetic innervation of the cecum and ascending colon? - ProProfs

    What is the sympathetic innervation of the cecum and ascending colon?

    • Vagus n.

    • Pelvic n.

    • Superior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior hypogastric n.

    • Superior hypogastric n.

    Correct Answer
    A. Superior mesenteric n.
    Explanation
    The sympathetic innervation of the cecum and ascending colon is provided by the superior mesenteric nerve.

    Rate this question:

  • 28. 
    What is the sympathetic innervation of the rectum and anal canal? - ProProfs

    What is the sympathetic innervation of the rectum and anal canal?

    • Vagus n.

    • Pelvic n.

    • Superior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior hypogastric n.

    • Superior hypogastric n.

    Correct Answer
    A. Inferior hypogastric n.
    Explanation
    The sympathetic innervation of the rectum and anal canal is provided by the inferior hypogastric nerve.

    Rate this question:

  • 29. 

    In which layer would you find mechanoreceptors and chemoreceptors of the intrinsic nervous system of the enteric nervous system?

    • Mucosa

    • Submucosa

    • Muscularis externa

    • Serosa

    Correct Answer
    A. Mucosa
    Explanation
    Mechanoreceptors and chemoreceptors of the intrinsic nervous system of the enteric nervous system are found in the mucosa layer. The mucosa is the innermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract and is responsible for absorption and secretion. It contains various types of cells, including sensory cells that detect mechanical and chemical stimuli. These receptors play a crucial role in regulating gastrointestinal functions such as peristalsis and secretion of digestive enzymes.

    Rate this question:

  • 30. 

    The _______ is the longest part of the digestive system, responsible for absorbing most of the nutrients from digested food.

    Correct Answer
    small intestine, Small intestine, Small Intestine
    Explanation
    The small intestine is a crucial component of the digestive system, measuring approximately 20 feet in length. It is composed of three sections: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The inner lining of the small intestine is folded into villi and microvilli, which significantly increase the surface area available for efficient absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream.

    Rate this question:

  • 31. 
    What is the sympathetic innervation of the descending colon and transverse colon? - ProProfs

    What is the sympathetic innervation of the descending colon and transverse colon?

    • Vagus n.

    • Pelvic n.

    • Superior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior hypogastric n.

    • Superior hypogastric n.

    Correct Answer
    A. Inferior mesenteric n.
    Explanation
    The sympathetic innervation of the descending colon and transverse colon is provided by the inferior mesenteric nerve.

    Rate this question:

  • 32. 

    Which of the following conditions is most likely to stimulate the secretion of an unknown hormone from the duodenal mucosa that plays a role in decreased gastric emptying? 

    • Elevated amino acids in the gut

    • Elevated free fatty acids in the gut

    • High pH in the gut

    • Hypotonicity in the gut

    Correct Answer
    A. Hypotonicity in the gut
    Explanation
    Hypotonicity in the gut is most likely to stimulate the secretion of an unknown hormone from the duodenal mucosa that plays a role in decreased gastric emptying. When the gut is hypotonic, meaning that the concentration of solutes is lower than normal, it signals the body to slow down gastric emptying in order to allow more time for absorption of water and electrolytes. This hormone secretion helps regulate the movement of food through the digestive system and maintain proper fluid balance.

    Rate this question:

  • 33. 

    Which of the following conditions is most likely to stimulate the secretion of glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide/Gastric Inhibitory Peptide (GIP) from the duodenal mucosa? 

    • Elevated amino acids in the gut

    • Elevated free fatty acids in the gut

    • Consumption and absorption of nutrients, such as glucose, orally.

    • High pH in the gut

    • Hypotonicity in the gut

    Correct Answer
    A. Consumption and absorption of nutrients, such as glucose, orally.
    Explanation
    The intake and absorption of nutrients like glucose, elevated amino acids, and long-chain fatty acids orally stimulate the release of GIP. K-cells detect glucose through a variation of sodium-coupled glucose transporter-1 (SGLT-1), leading to the secretion of GIP.

    Rate this question:

  • 34. 
    What is the sympathetic innervation of the sigmoid colon? - ProProfs

    What is the sympathetic innervation of the sigmoid colon?

    • Vagus n.

    • Pelvic n.

    • Superior mesenteric n.

    • Inferior hypogastric n.

    • Superior hypogastric n.

    Correct Answer
    A. Superior hypogastric n.
    Explanation
    The sympathetic innervation of the sigmoid colon is provided by the superior hypogastric nerve. The superior hypogastric nerve is a major nerve that arises from the aortic plexus and provides sympathetic fibers to the pelvic organs, including the sigmoid colon. It plays a role in regulating the smooth muscle tone and blood flow to the sigmoid colon.

    Rate this question:

  • 35. 

    The large intestine is similar except that the longitudinal muscle layer of the muscularis externa concentrates itself in three bands called the______.

    Correct Answer
    teniae coli
    Explanation
    The large intestine has a unique structure in its muscularis externa called the teniae coli. These are three bands of longitudinal muscle that run along the length of the large intestine. They are responsible for creating the characteristic pouches or haustra in the colon. These pouches allow for the expansion and contraction of the large intestine, aiding in the movement and processing of waste material.

    Rate this question:

  • 36. 

    The serosa consists primarily of?

    • Loose connective tissue

    • Intestinal smooth muscle

    • Areolar connective tissue

    • Squamous mesothelial cells

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Areolar connective tissue
    A. Squamous mesothelial cells
    Explanation
    The serosa is the outermost layer of the digestive tract and is composed of areolar connective tissue and squamous mesothelial cells. Areolar connective tissue provides support and elasticity to the serosa, while squamous mesothelial cells form a protective lining. These cells are flat and thin, allowing for easy movement and flexibility of the digestive organs. Together, areolar connective tissue and squamous mesothelial cells contribute to the structure and function of the serosa.

    Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Nov 13, 2024 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Nov 13, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Nov 07, 2014
    Quiz Created by
    Rejust
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.