Where does most of the absorption of nutrients occur?
small intestine
mouth
large intestine
stomach
Most of the absorption of nutrients occurs in the small intestine.
Most of the absorption of nutrients occurs in the small intestine. To arrive at this answer, we can break down the role of each of the listed organs in the process of digestion and absorption.
1. Mouth: The mouth is involved in the mechanical breakdown of food through chewing and the mixing of food with saliva, which contains enzymes that begin the process of chemical digestion. However, the absorption of nutrients does not primarily occur in the mouth.
2. Stomach: The stomach plays a crucial role in digestion by secreting gastric juices that break down proteins, but very little absorption of nutrients takes place in this organ.
3. Large Intestine: The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water and electrolytes from undigested food material and convert it into feces. While some vitamins and minerals can be absorbed in the large intestine, the majority of nutrient absorption does not occur there.
4. Small Intestine: The small intestine is where most digestion and absorption of nutrients occur. It is divided into three sections: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The inner lining of the small intestine is covered in finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for absorption. The breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as the majority of nutrient absorption, occurs in the small intestine.
Therefore, the correct answer is the small intestine.