Esophagus

Definition

The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) to the stomach. It plays a key role in transporting food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach for digestion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The esophagus uses coordinated muscle contractions called peristalsis to move food towards the stomach.
2. It has a sphincter at each end, with the upper esophageal sphincter preventing air from entering and the lower esophageal sphincter preventing acid reflux.
3. The esophageal wall consists of several layers, including mucosa, submucosa, muscularis propria, and adventitia.
4. Swallowing is a complex process involving multiple nerves and muscles working together to push food through the esophagus.
5. Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can affect the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of the esophagus in digestion?
• How does peristalsis aid in moving food through the esophagus?
• What role do the upper and lower esophageal sphincters play?

Related terms

Peristalsis: one sentence definition

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): one sentence definition

Lower Esophageal Sphincter: Muscle at the junction between the esophagus and stomach that controls passage of food into stomach and prevents acid reflux.