Which of the following is true regarding the small intestine?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the small intestine is primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients from digested food. It has specialized structures like villi to maximize nutrient absorption. Choice A is incorrect as the pancreas and other organs produce digestive enzymes. Choice C is incorrect as the liver produces bile. Choice D is incorrect as waste is stored in the large intestine, not the small intestine.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Mainly found in the colon. Intestinal flora, also known as gut microbiota, is primarily located in the colon. This is because the colon provides an ideal environment for the growth and survival of the diverse array of beneficial bacteria that make up the intestinal flora. These bacteria play a crucial role in various physiological functions, such as digestion, immune system regulation, and vitamin production. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because intestinal flora are predominantly bacteria (not viruses), are not solely located in the duodenum but throughout the gastrointestinal tract, and are essential for normal digestion, not just needed.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which helps break down sucrose (a type of sugar) into glucose and fructose for digestion. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Saliva does not play a significant role in the digestion of phospholipids (B), speaking ability (C), or breaking food down into small pieces (D).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the small intestine has a larger internal surface area compared to the large intestine due to its extensive folding and villi. This increased surface area enhances nutrient absorption efficiency. Choice A is incorrect as the small intestine is longer than the large intestine. Choice C is incorrect as the small intestine absorbs more water than the large intestine. Choice D is incorrect as the small intestine typically does not contain the same amount of bacteria as the large intestine, which is known for its significant bacterial population.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because peristalsis, a coordinated muscle contraction that propels food along the gastrointestinal tract, is indeed seen in most parts of the GIT. This process helps move food from the esophagus to the stomach, and then throughout the intestines for digestion and absorption. Peristalsis is essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system. Choice A is incorrect because gastrointestinal motility is regulated by both neural and hormonal factors. Choice B is incorrect as the emptying of the stomach is mainly facilitated by the rhythmic contractions of the stomach muscles, not segmentation contractions. Choice C is incorrect as the movement of chyme along the small intestine is primarily due to segmentation and peristalsis, not the migrating motor complex.