The organ responsible for digestion is the stomach. Located between the esophagus and the small intestine, the stomach is a muscular, sac-like organ that plays a crucial role in breaking down food. It secretes gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes, that help dissolve food and kill harmful bacteria. The stomach churns the food to mix it with these juices, turning it into a semi-liquid substance called chyme. Once the food is sufficiently digested, it moves into the small intestine, where further digestion and nutrient absorption occur. The stomach thus plays a vital part in the overall digestive process.