Question

Alcohol is absorbed in-

• A. Mouth
• B. Oesophagus
• C. Throughout the alimentary canal
• D. Stomach and proximal intestine

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Stomach and proximal intestine

The correct option D.

Explanation of the correct option:

Option D:

1. The small intestine's mucosa and the alimentary canal directly absorb alcohol in the digestive system.
2. The alcohol enters the bloodstream in the stomach. The stomach absorbs about 80% of the alcohol we eat, with the remaining 20% going into our small intestine.
3. The surface area for alcohol absorption is increased by finger-like extensions on the stomach and intestinal cells.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Alcohol does not break down like food once it has been swallowed.
2. A tiny portion is initially taken up by the tongue and mucosal lining of the mouth.
3. Once in the stomach, alcohol is immediately absorbed into the bloodstream by the tissue lining of the small intestine and stomach.

Option B:

1. Although there can be a little amount of absorption in the mouth, this amount is often negligible because any lingering alcohol soon departs the mouth.
2. After leaving the mouth, alcohol travels down the oesophagus and enters the stomach.

Option C:

1. A tiny portion is initially taken up by the tongue and mucosal lining of the mouth.
2. Once in the stomach, alcohol is immediately absorbed into the bloodstream by the tissue lining of the small intestine and stomach.

Final answer: Alcohol is absorbed in the stomach and proximal intestine.