Question

Most of the digestion and absorption of food takes place in the

• A. Small intestine
• B. Liver
• C. Stomach
• D. Large intestine

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Small intestine

The correct option is A.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. The small intestine is a part of the digestive system that connects the stomach to the large intestine.
2. It is divided into three distinct segments- duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.
3. In the duodenum, digestive juices from the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas are secreted that facilitate chemical digestion.
4. The muscles present in the walls of the jejunum churn the food and promote digestion.
5. The mucosal lining of the jejunum and ileum is involved in the absorption of nutrients.
6. Up to 95% of carbohydrates and proteins are absorbed here. 90% of water is also absorbed in the small intestine.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option B:

1. The liver produces bile that helps in the digestion of fats.
2. It produces cholesterol and proteins that carry fat molecules.

Option C:

1. The stomach is the central organ of the digestive system that produces enzymes and acids required for digestion.
2. It temporarily stores food. It contracts and relaxes alternatively and facilitates the breaking of food.

Option D:

1. The large intestine is the final portion of the gastrointestinal tract through which the food leaves the body.
2. It absorbs water and electrolytes from the food particles and ejects the waste materials.

Final answer: Most of the digestion and absorption of food take place in the small intestine.