The lower esophageal sphincter relaxes:
A)as part of the swallowing reflex
B)as soon as swallowed food has reached the stomach
C)most of the time while the stomach is contracting
D)whenever swallowing is not taking place

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscular ring that separates the esophagus from the stomach. It normally remains tightly closed to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. However, it relaxes as part of the swallowing reflex to allow food to pass from the esophagus into the stomach.

The Lower Esophageal Sphincter Relaxes