What is the name of the sphincter that separates the stomach from the small intestine?

Prepare for the Arizona State University BIO181 General Biology I Exam 2. Study with flashcards, multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations to boost your understanding. Ensure success in your biology exam!

The sphincter that separates the stomach from the small intestine is known as the pyloric sphincter. Its primary role is to regulate the movement of partially digested food, known as chyme, from the stomach into the small intestine. This regulation ensures that the small intestine receives chyme in a controlled manner, allowing for effective digestion and nutrient absorption. The pyloric sphincter functions by opening and closing in response to hormonal signals and the presence of chyme, thus playing a critical role in the digestive process. It helps maintain the appropriate conditions in both the stomach and the small intestine, as these two organs have different pH levels and enzymes required for digestion.

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