Biology: The Small Intestine Flashcards
Where does the absorption of nutrients occur?
in the small intestine
How are the walls of the small intestine an adaptation?
internally folded into projections called villi which increase surface area
How are the walls of the Villi adapted?
one cell thick which creates short diffusion distance
How are capillaries an important adaptation to the Villi?
lots surround villi and help to maintain concentration gradient
How are muscles in the Villi an important adaptation?
stimulate movement which helps maintain concentration gradient
What is the importance of microvilli?
further folding of villi and create large surface area
How are mitochondria important to the epithelial cells of the small intestine?
provide energy through aerobic respiration for active transport
Why are there channel proteins in epithelial cells?
for facilitated diffusion
What is the purpose of membrane bound enzymes in epithelial cells?
for hydrolysis of polymers
