oesophagus
Definition
The oesophagus (also spelled esophagus) is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It is about 25 centimetres (10 inches) long in adults.
The oesophagus is lined with stratified squamous epithelium, which is a type of tissue that is resistant to abrasion. The epithelium is also covered with mucus, which helps to lubricate the food and prevent it from sticking to the walls of the oesophagus.
The oesophagus is made up of two layers of muscle: the inner layer is circular and the outer layer is longitudinal. The circular muscle contracts to move food down the oesophagus, while the longitudinal muscle helps to keep the oesophagus open.
At the bottom of the oesophagus is the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), which is a ring of muscle that controls the passage of food from the oesophagus to the stomach. The LES relaxes to let food into the stomach and contracts to prevent food from backing up into the oesophagus.
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common symptom of oesophageal problems. Dysphagia can be caused by a number of things, including a narrowing of the oesophagus, a tumour in the oesophagus, or a neurological disorder.
How can the word be used?
The oesophagus is lined with muscle tissue that helps to move food down to the stomach.
Different forms of the word
The word "oesophagus" (British English) or "esophagus" (American English) has no different forms. It is a noun that refers to the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
Etymology
The word "oesophagus" (British English) or "esophagus" (American English) has no different forms. It is a noun that refers to the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
Question
Where can you find your oesophagus?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Describe the structure and function of the oesophagus in the human digestive system.
Answer:
The oesophagus is a vital component of the human digestive system, serving as a muscular tube that facilitates the transport of food from the mouth to the stomach. It plays a crucial role in the process of swallowing and the movement of ingested material through the gastrointestinal tract.
The structure of the oesophagus consists of several layers. The innermost layer called the mucosa, is lined with mucous membrane that aids in the smooth passage of food. The submucosa layer contains blood vessels and nerves that supply the oesophagus. Surrounding these layers is the muscularis layer, which is responsible for the rhythmic contractions called peristalsis. Peristalsis helps push the food downward through coordinated muscular movements.
The oesophagus connects the pharynx (throat) to the stomach. When we swallow, the muscles in the upper part of the oesophagus contract to initiate peristalsis, pushing the food downward. The lower oesophagal sphincter, a circular muscle at the junction of the oesophagus and stomach, relaxes to allow food to enter the stomach.