What is the primary function of villi and microvilli in the small intestine?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks about the primary function of villi and microvilli in the small intestine.
Option a: To secrete hormones for regulating digestion. This is not the primary role of the villi and microvilli themselves; hormone secretion is associated with specialized cells and glands, not the main structural purpose of the villi/microvilli which is absorption.
Option b: To absorb water and electrolytes from the digestive tract. While the small intestine does participate in absorption, the major and defining function of villi and microvilli is not water/electrolyte absorption per se; that role is also shared with other parts of the GI tract and is not their most characteristic feature.
Option c: To increase the surface area for nutrient absorption. This is the key purpose of villi and microvilli: by extending the mucosal surface, they dramatically enlarge the area available for nutrient uptake, enabling efficient absorption of digested food.
Option d: To increase the production of digestive enzymes. The production of digestive enzymes is primarily carried out by exocrine glands and the enterocytes’ enzymatic machinery, but the primary function of villi and microvilli is not enzyme production; it is increasing surface area for absorption.

BIO 181 (001&002) FALL 2025 4E - Self-Check: Human Digestive System: Intestines (LO 4E.1, 4E.2, 4E.3, 4E.4, 4E.5)

What is the primary function of villi and microvilli in the small intestine?

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