Author
Home > Health > What is the Difference Between Abdomen and Stomach?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Abdomen and Stomach?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The abdomen and stomach are two distinct body parts that serve different functions. Here are the main differences between them:

  • Definition: The abdomen is a region of the body situated between the chest and pelvic area, while the stomach is an organ of digestion located within the abdominal cavity.
  • Function: The abdomen contains all the organs between the chest and pelvic region, providing movement, support for the torso, assistance with breathing, protection for the inner organs, and postural support. The stomach, on the other hand, is responsible for digesting food, as it is an organ of digestion.
  • Position: The abdomen is placed under the chest, separated by a strong muscle known as the diaphragm. The stomach lies on the left side of the abdominal cavity.
  • Other Organs: Apart from the stomach, the abdomen also contains other organs such as the small intestine, colon, and liver.

In summary, the abdomen is a body region that houses various organs, while the stomach is a specific organ within the abdomen that plays a crucial role in the digestion process.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Abdomen and Stomach?
  • Comparative Table: Abdomen vs Stomach

    • Comparative Table: Abdomen vs Stomach

    The abdomen and stomach are two major body parts in animals, and they play crucial roles in digestion and absorption of food. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the abdomen and stomach:

    Feature Abdomen Stomach
    Definition The abdomen is the part of the body between the chest and pelvic region, containing all the organs in that region. The stomach is an organ of digestion, located between the esophagus and the intestines.
    Position The abdomen is anatomically separated into nine regions, including the right and left hypochondriac regions. The stomach is a "J" shaped organ, located anterior to the spine and beneath the diaphragm.
    Structure The abdomen contains several organs, such as the small intestine, colon, and liver. The stomach is divided into several parts, including the anterior wall, curvature, cardiac, angular notch, pyloric canal, gastric canal, and rugal fold.
    Function The abdomen contains organs that aid in digestion, absorption, waste elimination, and reproduction. The stomach is responsible for mixing and breaking down food before it enters the intestines.
    Capacity The stomach can produce and secrete about 2 to 3 liters of gastric acid and can expand to accommodate food. The stomach has a capacity of about 1 quart (0.94 liters) in an adult, and it can change size and shape according to its position and the amount of food inside.

    In summary, the abdomen is a larger region containing multiple organs, while the stomach is a specific organ of digestion that plays a crucial role in breaking down food before it enters the intestines.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.