IGCSE Biology glossary
Peristalsis
Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Definition
Waves of muscular contraction and relaxation that push food along the digestive tract. Circular muscles behind the food bolus contract while those ahead relax, squeezing the food forward through the oesophagus, stomach and intestines.
What to include in an exam answer
In exam answers, always describe the alternating contraction and relaxation of muscles. Simply saying 'muscles push food along' is too vague for full marks.
Example in context
Describe how peristalsis moves food through the oesophagus (3 marks): Circular muscles behind the food contract, pushing the food forward. Muscles ahead of the food relax, allowing the food to move through. These waves of contraction and relaxation continue along the oesophagus.
Related syllabus topic
Human nutrition