Question

What is the function of the villi located in small intestine ?

• A. Blocking absorption
• B. Reducing the surface area of absorption
• C. Increasing the surface area of absorption
• D. None of these

Hint:

Think of the villi and microvilli like the bristles of a brush. They create a huge surface area in a small space, which is a key principle in biology for processes like absorption and gas exchange.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The small intestine is the primary site for the chemical digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. Its structure is highly specialized to maximize this absorption process.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The inner wall of the small intestine is not smooth. It is covered with millions of tiny, finger-like projections called villi (singular: villus).
Each villus is further covered with even smaller hair-like projections called microvilli.
This folded structure of villi and microvilli drastically increases the total surface area of the inner lining of the small intestine.
A larger surface area allows for more efficient and rapid absorption of digested nutrients (like glucose, amino acids, fatty acids) into the capillaries and lacteals within each villus.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The primary function of the villi is to increase the surface area available for the absorption of nutrients.