5 Questions
What is the main function of the large intestine?
To absorb sodium, chloride, and water to concentrate waste material
What type of cells predominate in the epithelium of the large intestine?
Goblet cells
What is unique about the muscular layers of the large intestine?
They are thicker than those in the small intestine
What is absorbed by the large intestine?
Sodium, chloride, and water
What is the function of absorptive cells in the large intestine?
To absorb sodium and chloride
Study Notes
Large Intestine Function
- Processes indigestible material from the small intestine
- Absorbs sodium, chloride, and water to concentrate waste material into feces
- Can absorb or secrete potassium
- Absorbs vitamins
Large Intestine Structure
- Lacks villi
- Has glands with crypts
- Epithelium contains a mix of absorptive cells and goblet cells
- Goblet cells predominate
- Absorptive cells take up sodium and chloride, allowing water passage via osmosis
Large Intestine Composition
- Lamina propria contains macrophages, plasma cells, eosinophils, and lymphoid nodules
- External muscular layers are thicker in the colon
- Generates powerful peristaltic contractions to propel waste
This quiz covers the functions and structure of the large intestine, including waste concentration, electrolyte and vitamin absorption, and epithelial cell composition.
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