The large intestine Flashcards
How long is the large intestine
1.5 meters
What is the caecum
- Where the ileum joins the large intestine
What is the structure of the caecum
- it is a pouch
- it is 6cm
- opens and joins the colon
What shape is the colon
An inverted U-shape
What does the rectum do
Stores and forms faeces
What surrounds the anal sphincter and anus
A ring of muscle
Does the large intestine have villi
No
Are enzymes secreted in the large intestine
No
What is the pace of material in the large intestine
Movement of material is slow
How long does remaining food stay in the large intestine for
Up to 24 hours
What happens to the contents in the large intestine
Most of the water is absorbed, and the contents become solid
What does bacteria do in the large intestine
Break down remaining compounds
What further breaks down carbohydrates and proteins
Carbohydrates and proteins are broken down further by release of CO2, methane and hydrogen sulfide
What remaining material makes up faeces
- water
- un digested materials
- bile
- bacteria remains of cells broken away from the alimentary canal
