What is the term for the narrow passage connecting the stomach with the duodenum?

The term that refers to the narrow passage connecting the stomach with the duodenum is the pylorus. This anatomical structure plays a critical role in digestion, as it regulates the flow of partially digested food (chyme) from the stomach into the duodenum, which is the first section of the small intestine. The pylorus contains the pyloric sphincter, a muscular valve that opens and closes to control the passage of chyme, thereby preventing backflow and ensuring that the digestive process continues in an orderly fashion.

The other terms listed refer to different parts of the gastrointestinal tract: the esophagus is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, the fundus is the upper part of the stomach that balloons above where the esophagus enters, and the cardia is the area where the esophagus connects to the stomach. Each of these structures has its unique functions and relationships within the digestive system, highlighting the importance of knowing specific terminology to understand human anatomy and physiology.