Question

What is the primary function of the large intestine in the human digestive system?

• A. It absorbs nutrients and water from digested food.
• B. It breaks down food into simpler molecules.
• C. It stores and concentrates bile.
• D. It absorbs water and forms feces.

Hint:

The large intestine is primarily responsible for the absorption of water and electrolytes, and it helps in the formation of feces, which are excreted from the body.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The large intestine, also known as the colon, plays a key role in the latter stages of digestion and absorption in the human digestive system.
- Option (1) is incorrect: While the large intestine does absorb some nutrients, its primary role is the absorption of water and electrolytes. The majority of nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine.
- Option (2) is incorrect: The breakdown of food into simpler molecules (digestion) primarily takes place in the stomach and small intestine, not in the large intestine.
- Option (3) is incorrect: The liver is responsible for producing bile, which is stored in the gallbladder. The large intestine does not store bile.
- Option (4) is correct: The main function of the large intestine is to absorb water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter, turning it into solid waste (feces). It also houses gut bacteria that aid in the fermentation of certain indigestible substances.
Thus, the primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water and form feces.