Question

The body system responsible for processing food, absorbing nutrients, and expelling wastes is the _______. a. cardiovascular system b. en docrine system c. muscular sy stem d. digestive system

Short answer

Answer: The digestive system. Explanation: The digestive system handles the processing of food, absorption of nutrients, and expulsion of waste. Its organs include the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus, with glands such as the liver, pancreas, and salivary glands aiding in digestion. The other systems (cardiovascular, endocrine, and muscular) are not directly involved in food processing, nutrient absorption, and waste expulsion.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the correct body system

The body system responsible for processing food, absorbing nutrients, and expelling wastes is the digestive system.

Explain the choice of the digestive system

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and expelling waste. Its organs include the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus, with glands such as the liver, pancreas, and salivary glands aiding in the process of digestion. The other systems, though vital for overall bodily function, do not directly handle food processing, nutrient absorption, and waste expulsion. To provide context for the other body systems: a. The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood, transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. b. The endocrine system is responsible for releasing hormones to regulate multiple processes in the body, such as growth, metabolism, and reproductive function. c. The muscular system is responsible for body movement, support, and heat generation through muscle contraction.