Human Anatomy and Physiology : Help with Large Intestine Physiology
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Example Question #31 : Digestive Physiology
Which of the following is not a function of the large intestine?
Fat digestion
Water absorption
Vitamin B12 absorption
Electrolyte absorption
Fat digestion
The large intestine is responsible for the absorption of water and electrolytes. Most digestion and nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine, leaving water and insoluble wastes for the large intestine. Once absorption takes place, the wastes become more solid and the body is able to retain water. Loss of this large intestine function can lead to severe dehydration.
Fat digestion is primarily a function of lipase and bile. Lipase helps cleave lipid molecules and bile helps emulsify particles for transport into the lymphatic system via lacteals.
Example Question #2 : Help With Large Intestine Physiology
Diarrhea is a result of lack of absorption or reduced absorption by which of the following organs?
Kidney
Small intestine
Large intestine
Stomach
Large intestine
The digestive system is responsible for the breakdown of food as it moves from the mouth, down through the stomach and the intestines. The food is mechanically broken down into small pieces in the mouth, and then further digested by the gastric secretions and contractions of the stomach. The small intestine is the site of chemical digestion due to the presence of pancreatic secretions. Once digested, the nutrients are absorbed in the jejunum and ileum of the small intestine. The large intestine is responsible for absorption of water and electrolytes, after which the remaining products are carried to the rectum for elimination.
If the water is not absorbed due to an infection or anatomical abnormality the feces will retain the water content, resulting in diarrhea.
The kidneys are responsible for the excretion of fluid wastes from the blood and help to maintain water balance and blood pressure. They are not involved in the digestive tract.
Example Question #3 : Help With Large Intestine Physiology
What nutrient is reabsorbed in the large intestine?
amino acids
water
sugars
fat
water
Amino acids, sugars, and fats are absorbed in the small intestine, but water is absorbed in the large intestine.
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