Problem 28

Question

Stomach is divided into how many major parts? (a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The stomach is divided into 4 major parts, so (d) is the correct option.
1Step 1: Recall the anatomy of the stomach
The first step is to recall knowledge from human anatomy. The stomach in human body is primarily divided into four major parts - the cardia, the fundus, the body, and the pylorus.
2Step 2: Identify the correct option
Secondly, we should identify the right answer from the given options. Since we know that the stomach is divided into four major parts, option (d) i.e. 4 is the correct answer.

Key Concepts

Parts of the StomachCardiaFundusPylorus
Parts of the Stomach
The human stomach is a crucial component of the digestive system. It serves as a muscular sack designed to break down food before it enters the small intestine. Broadly, the stomach is divided into four major parts, each with a unique function:
  • Cardia
  • Fundus
  • Body
  • Pylorus
Each of these parts plays a specific role in digestion, contributing to the efficient processing of nutrients. Understanding these parts helps in recognizing the stomach’s complex yet orderly structure.
Cardia
The cardia is the first section of the stomach, located closest to the esophagus. Its primary function is to receive food and liquid from the esophagus.
Here are some interesting aspects of the cardia:
  • This region surrounds the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscular ring that controls the passage of food.
  • The cardia helps prevent acid reflux by regulating the entrance of stomach contents back into the esophagus.
The cardia acts as a careful gatekeeper, directing the flow of digesting food efficiently into the stomach.
Fundus
The fundus is the upper rounded section of the stomach. It is located to the left of the cardia and under the diaphragm.
The fundus primarily functions as a storage area for the undigested food that is consumed. Here are some highlights about the fundus:
  • When you eat, gases released from food will typically accumulate here.
  • This region allows for the temporary storage of air swallowed during eating and food intake.
This portion of the stomach ensures that there is enough mixing and breakdown before food moves on in the digestive process.
Pylorus
The pylorus represents the last part of the stomach, transitioning food from the stomach into the small intestine.
It's located as a funnel-shaped region between the stomach and the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Let's explore its key roles:
  • The pylorus serves as a filtering mechanism, ensuring that only adequately processed food particles move into the intestine.
  • The pyloric sphincter, a muscular valve, regulates the flow of chyme into the small intestine at a controlled rate.
The pylorus is essential in ensuring that digestion occurs smoothly and efficiently, maximizing nutrient absorption as food exits the stomach.