The function of the sphincter between the stomach and small intestine is to
A) retain chyme in the stomach until pepsin digestion is complete.
B) periodically release chyme into the small intestine in squirts.
C) release bile into the duodenum when chyme is present.
D) release pancreatic secretions into the duodenum when chyme is present.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sphincter between the stomach and small intestine, known as the pyloric sphincter or pylorus, functions to allow small amounts of chyme (partially digested food mixed with stomach acid and enzymes) to pass into the small intestine in controlled amounts. This helps to ensure that the digestive process occurs efficiently and that the small intestine is not overwhelmed with a large volume of chyme at once. The sphincter does not play a role in pepsin digestion, bile release, or pancreatic secretion.

The Function of the Sphincter Between the Stomach and Small