Question 9 of 33intermediate💡 UnderstandShort Answer3 marks

How is the small intestine designed to absorb digested food?

Correct Answer

The small intestine is designed to maximise the absorption of digested food. The inner lining of the small intestine has numerous finger-like projections called villi. These villi increase the surface area for absorption, allowing more digested food to be absorbed efficiently.

The villi are richly supplied with blood vessels. These blood vessels take the absorbed food to each and every cell of the body. The absorbed food is then utilised for obtaining energy, building up new tissues and the repair of old tissues.

Exercise: QUESTIONS | Q: 5 | (Page 9)
For More Understanding

Explanation

This question tests the student's understanding of the structural adaptations of the small intestine for absorption. The textbook clearly mentions two key design features: (1) the presence of villi which increase surface area, and (2) the rich blood supply in villi which transports absorbed nutrients. A 3-mark answer must include both these points with proper explanation of how they aid absorption.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Identify the structural feature - villi (finger-like projections)

  2. Step 2: Explain how villi help - increase surface area for absorption

  3. Step 3: Explain the role of blood vessels - transport absorbed food to all body cells

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