5.2 Digestive System Anatomy and Physiology

Activity 3/ Exit Ticket.

Read about the appendix and answer the questions below.

The appendix sits at the junction of the small intestine and large intestine. It’s a thin tube about four inches long. Normally, the appendix sits in the lower right abdomen.

The function of the appendix is unknown. One theory is that the appendix acts as a storehouse for good bacteria, “rebooting” the digestive system after diarrheal illnesses. Other experts believe the appendix is just a useless remnant from our evolutionary past. Surgical removal of the appendix causes no observable health problems.

Appendicitis: For unclear reasons, the appendix often becomes inflamed, infected, and can rupture. This causes severe pain in the right lower part of the belly, along with nausea and vomiting.

Exit Ticket:

1.What is the appendix?

2. Do we need it?

3. Why do you think some people get their appendix removed?