Biology / Unit 12 Bio 2773 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Esophagus and Peristalsis
Captions available
The idea
The esophagus moves a swallowed bolus toward the stomach through peristalsis, a unidirectional wave of smooth muscle contraction.
In practice
Peristalsis pushes food toward the stomach regardless of body orientation, so swallowing works even lying down.
Where people slip
The esophagus produces no digestive enzymes of its own — only lubricating mucus.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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