The muscular tube that stretches from the lower end of the stomach to the anus is called the intestine. It is also known as the bowel or bowels. Further, the intestine is divided into the small intestine and large intestine. Although both these intestines are interconnected, they can be differentiated in many ways. In this article, we shall discuss the difference between the small intestine and large intestine.
Given below are the differences between the large intestine and small intestine.
Small Intestine vs Large Intestine
| Small Intestine | Large Intestine |
| The small intestine is a part of the digestive system that runs between the stomach and large intestine | The large intestine is the terminal part of the intestine that is wider and shorter than the small intestine |
| The small intestine is longer than the large intestine | It is shorter than the small intestine |
| It is narrower than the large intestine | It is wider than the small intestine |
| The three components of the small intestine are duodenum, jejunum and ileum | Colon, cecum, rectum and anal canal are the components of the large intestine |
| It exhibits small movements in the abdominal cavity | The large intestine exhibits comparatively less mobility |
| It is responsible for the absorption of nutrients from the digested food | It takes part in the absorption of electrolytes and water. It is also concerned with the production of vitamins, especially vitamin K and biotin. |
| The longitudinal muscles are arranged in circular layers | The longitudinal muscles are arranged in three bands known as Teniae Colie |
| Inner walls of the small intestine has finger-like projections called villi | Large intestine does not have villi |
Conclusion
From the above differences, we can conclude that both small intestine and large intestine play a major role in digestion. The small intestine is involved in the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. The large intestine is involved in the absorption of water and in the production of vitamins. Register with BYJU’S Biology to explore more fascinating topics.
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