Some animals, but not humans, have an organ called a gizzard located near the top of their digestive tract. This organ is small and can contain small rocks. It also has thick, muscular walls. Based on this physical description, which of the following is most likely to be the function of this organ?
A. chemical digestion
B. mechanical digestion
C. absorption of water
D. absorption of nutrients
B
correct
The function of an organ can often be determined by its physical characteristics. In this case, we can analyze the description of the organ, which includes the facts that it is small, contains small rocks, and has thick, muscular walls. Based on this information, we can conclude that the most likely function of this organ is mechanical digestion.
Mechanical digestion involves the physical breakdown of food into smaller pieces, making it easier for further digestion and absorption later in the digestive tract. The presence of small rocks implies that this organ helps in grinding and crushing the food, while the thick muscular walls suggest that it has the power to squeeze and contract, aiding in the mechanical breaking down of food particles.
Therefore, the correct answer is B. mechanical digestion.