6.1 Digestion and absorption


 
Terminology for the digestive system
Here we will have a look at the terms digestion, assimilation and absorbtion.


 
Structure of a villus
Villi are finger-like extension into the small intestine. They increase the surface area for absorbtion.


 
Digestion of starch
Amylose and amylopectin are two forms of starch. Amylose is broken down to maltose, which can then be absorbed.


 
Organs of digestion
Different digestive organs have a different pH and also different digestive enzymes.


 
Cross section of the small intesting
The small intestine has several layers.
Erratum: The longitudinal and circular muscles are mistakingly exchanged in this video. The longitudinal muscles are on the outside, the circular inside.


 
Methods of absorbtion
The body has different methods of absorbing food. Here we have a look at these.


 
Digestive enzymes
Digestive enzymes are specialized to break down different substances. Here we look at the enzames Amylase, Peptidease and Lipase.