The term _________________ refers to the contraction of smooth muscle in the digestive system that moves food along the GI tract.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Peristalsis is the contraction of smooth muscle that lines the esophageal walls. The smooth muscle has a circular layer as well as a longitudinal layer of muscle that allows a "wringing" action of the smooth muscle to push food down the esophagus.
Vasoconstriction refers to the constriction of blood vessels and is not directly related to digestive function.
Segmentation is the muscular contraction of the smooth muscle layers of the  stomach that moves food around to ensure its interaction with digestive juices.
Retroperistalsis is the countermovement to peristalsis where the smooth muscle contracts pushing esophageal contents back towards the mouth. This usually occurs just prior to vomiting.

The Term _________________ Refers to the Contraction of Smooth Muscle