Absorption in the Ileum

Question 1

What is the main site for absorption?

Answer 1

The main site for the absorption of digested food products is the ileum

Question 2

How is the ileum adapted for the process of absorption?

Answer 2

It is highly folded and long

Question 3

What are the folds of the ileum covered with?

Answer 3

The folds are covered by finger like villi

Question 4

Lacteal

Answer 4

Glycerol and fatty acids are absorbed into this

Question 5

Blood vessel

Answer 5

Glucose and amino acids are absorbed into this

Question 6

Name 3 adaptations of the ileum for absorption

Answer 6

1. It is long
2. It is highly folded
3. Villi

Question 7

What are the benefits of adaptation to efficient absorption

Answer 7

The adaptations of the ileum all increase the surface area for absorption of small molecules into the blood

Question 8

Name 3 adaptations of villi

Answer 8

1. Good blood supply
2. Thin layer of surface cells on each villus
3. Permeable membrane

Question 9

How does a good blood supply lead to efficient absorption?

Answer 9

It maintains a steep concentration gradient (capillaries in each villus)

Question 10

Why is the thin layer of surface cells on each villus good for absorption?

Answer 10

It means there is a short diffusion (movement) distance

Question 11

What is the benefit of the permeable membrane of the villi?

Answer 11

It allows digested food molecules to pass through easily