Question

What is the difference between segmentation and peristalsis?

Answer 1

Segmentation:

1. Segmentation is a form of local contraction of the gastrointestinal tract's circular muscles.
2. In general, it occurs mostly in the small intestine.

Peristalsis:

1. Peristalsis is a radially symmetrical muscle action that is responsible for material propagation.
2. It is more prevalent in the gastrointestinal tract's esophagus, pushing a ball of food from the mouth to the stomach.

Difference between segmentation and peristalsis:

Segmentation	Peristalsis
1. Smooth muscle contractions occur mostly in the small intestine and are characterised by back and forth contractions.	1. The involuntary contraction and relaxation of intestinal muscles, result in wavelike motions that drive the contents of the canal forward.
2. It is more common in the small and large intestines.	2. It is most common in the esophagus.
3. It happens as a result of the rhythmic contractions of the longitudinal muscles.	3. It is caused by the circular muscles contracting.
4. It is in charge of movement in both directions, allowing for more mixing.	4. It's a one-way movement in the caudal direction.
5. As a result, food propagation is sluggish.	5. It results in rapid food propagation.