Food and chyme are pushed through the digestive system by:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Peristalsis refers to the rhythmic contractions of smooth muscle that propel food and chyme through the digestive tract.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Assimilation involves distributing absorbed nutrients to body cells for use.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The lamina propria of the hard palate is directly continuous with the periosteum of the underlying bone, providing a firm attachment. Loose areolar tissue is more typical in softer mucosal areas.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Filiform papillae have secondary papillae with separate epithelial caps extending from the primary papillae, unlike other papillae types.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Gustatory cells are centrally located within the taste bud, surrounded by supporting cells, not peripheral.