The backward flow of stomach contents, a process known as ____, is prevented by the ____.

Question

The backward flow of stomach contents, a process known as ____, is prevented by the ____. ​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reflux, which is the backward flow of stomach contents, is prevented by the lower esophageal sphincter. The other answer choices are not related to the prevention of reflux. Peristalsis refers to the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract, and is not specifically involved in preventing reflux. Segmentation is a type of muscle contraction in the small intestine that mixes food with digestive juices and breaks it down further, while the ileocecal valve prevents backflow from the large intestine into the small intestine. Motility is a general term that refers to the movement of the digestive tract, and the upper esophageal sphincter prevents air from entering the esophagus during breathing.

The Backward Flow of Stomach Contents, a Process Known as ____