Which organs are part of the digestive system?

• A. Mouth, Esophagus, Stomach, Liver, Gallbladder, Pancreas, Small intestine (Duodenum, Jejunum, Ileum), Large intestine (Ascending, Transverse, Descending Colon), Rectum
• B. Heart, Lungs
• C. Brain, Spinal Cord
• D. Skin, Muscles

Answer: (A)

The digestive system is the group of organs that break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste. It starts in the mouth with chewing and saliva, moves down the esophagus through peristaltic movements, and continues in the stomach where acids and enzymes begin digestion. Most nutrient absorption happens in the small intestine, aided by secretions from the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. The large intestine then absorbs water and forms waste, with the rectum ending the process. The set that includes mouth, esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, small intestine, and large intestine (with their respective sections) fits this role precisely.

Other options include organs that belong to different body systems, such as the heart and lungs (circulatory and respiratory), the brain and spinal cord (nervous system), and skin and muscles (integumentary and musculoskeletal systems).