# Explain how peristalsis moves food along the oesophagus.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 7.2 Alimentary canal · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The oesophagus has muscular walls / is a muscular tube
2. Circular muscles contract behind the bolus / food
3. Circular muscles relax in front of the bolus / food
4. This creates a wave of muscular contraction that pushes the food towards the stomach

## Key terms

- [peristalsis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/peristalsis)
- [oesophagus](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/oesophagus)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-peristalsis-moves-food-along-0178498a) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.