... from large elements that cannot be absorbed, into smaller more useful compounds that can be absorbed and then carried to where they are needed in the body. Mouth The mouth is the beginning of the digestive area. Chewing breaks the food into pieces that are more easily digested, while saliva mixes with food to begin the process of breaking it down into a something that the body can absorb and use. Oesophagus Located in the throat near the trachea, the oesophagus receives food from the mouth. By means of a series of muscular contractions called peristalsis, the oesophagus delivers food to the stomach. Stomach The stomach is a hollow organ, which holds food while it is being mixed with enzymes that continue the process of breaking down food into a usable form. Cells in the lining of the stomach hide away a strong acid and powerful enzymes that are responsible for the breakdown ...

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