The Pancreas – Structure, Function and Hormonal Secretions

The pancreas is a glandular organ located in the abdominal cavity. It has a complex structure consisting of various parts, including the head, body, and tail. Functionally, the pancreas plays a crucial role in both the digestive and endocrine systems. It produces and secretes digestive enzymes and juices, essential for the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. Additionally, the pancreas secretes important hormones like insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels. The pancreatic structure, function, and hormonal secretions are vital for maintaining overall health and metabolic balance.

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Differences Between Pollination and Fertilisation

Difference Between Pollination and Fertilisation

Understanding the difference between pollination and fertilisation is crucial in plant reproduction. Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the stamen to the pistil, whereas fertilisation is the fusion of male and female gametes to form a zygote. Pollination occurs before fertilisation and can lead to genetic variation. These processes play an important role in the successful reproduction of plants.

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what are the Difference Between Chemosynthesis and Photosynthesis

Difference Between Chemosynthesis and Photosynthesis

Chemosynthesis and photosynthesis are two different processes with different energy sources and reactions. While photosynthesis uses light energy, carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen, chemosynthesis relies on chemical energy from inorganic compounds and produces organic compounds without the involvement of light or oxygen.

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Photorespiration occurs in

Photorespiration occurs in C3 plants and involves several organelles. In chloroplasts, RuBP oxygenase reacts with RuBP, leading to the formation of PGA and PGly. Glycolic acid is produced in chloroplasts and then undergoes oxidation in peroxisomes, forming glyoxylic acid. Within mitochondria, glycine combines with CO2 and NH3, releasing CO2 and forming serine.

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Chapter 13 - Photosynthesis in Higher Plants

Photorespiration is a Wasteful process Justify

Photorespiration is a wasteful process that inhibits photosynthesis by diverting RuBisCO activity from carbon fixation. It reduces the production of glucose and oxygen, important products of photosynthesis. In addition, photorespiration consumes ATP instead of producing it, resulting in a loss of energy for the plant. It also leads to a loss of fixed carbon through the release of carbon dioxide, which further reduces carbon gain.

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Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) -Pathway, Significance, Examples

Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) is a specialised form of photosynthesis in xerophytic succulents. CAM Plants absorb CO2 at night, store it as malic acid and release it during the day for carbohydrate production. They conserve water by closing the stomata during the day. Examples are orchids, cacti, aloe and pineapple. CAM enables efficient CO2 use, water conservation and reduced photorespiration in arid environments.

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Salivary Glands - Definition, Types, Location, Size, Ducts, Diagram, Characteristics, Secretion, Structure and Function

Salivary Glands – Definition, Types, Location, Size, Ducts, Diagram, Characteristics, Secretion, Structure and Function

Salivary glands are exocrine glands responsible for saliva secretion. They have acinar cells for saliva synthesis and ductal cells for transport. Myoepithelial cells aid saliva movement. Major glands include parotid (largest), submandibular, and sublingual (smallest). Ducts are Stensen’s (parotid), Wharton’s (submandibular), and multiple (sublingual). Saliva lubricates, digests, and protects. Understanding their structure and function is vital.

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Gastric Glands - Location , Structure, Types, Secretion and Functions

Gastric Glands – Location , Structure, Types, Secretion and Functions

Gastric glands, present in the stomach lining, play an important role in digestion. Structurally, they are made up of different cell types, including parietal, chief, and mucous cells. These glands secrete gastric juice, which consists of hydrochloric acid, pepsinogen and mucus. The secretions help break down food, sterilisation of ingested pathogens and absorb essential nutrients, thus fulfilling important functions in the digestive process

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peristalsis / perstaltic movement

Peristalsis-  The Rhythmic Journey Through Your Body

Peristalsis is a vital biological process that facilitates the movement of food through the digestive system. It involves rhythmic contractions of smooth muscles, creating a wave-like motion known as peristaltic waves. These waves propel food through the digestive tract and ensure efficient digestion and absorption of nutrients. Peristaltic movements are coordinated by the enteric nervous system and provide the motility necessary for proper gastrointestinal function.

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emulsification of fats in digestion

Emulsification of Fats

Emulsification of fats is an important process in digestion in which large globules of fat are broken down into smaller droplets. This process is carried out by bile, a substance produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Bile emulsifies fats by acting as a detergent, breaking down the fat into smaller droplets that can be easily digested and absorbed by the body. Without this process, the digestion and absorption of fats would be much less efficient.

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