All parts of the digestive tract have a mucosa layer. However, the appearance of the layer varies throughout the tract. Which of the following is a difference between the mucosa of the small and of the large intestines?
A) The mucosa of the small intestine has microvilli, and that of the large intestine does not.
B) The mucosa of the large intestine has goblet cells, and that of the small intestine does not.
C) The mucosa of the small intestine has simple columnar epithelium, and that of the large intestine does not.
D) The mucosa of the large intestine has larger circular folds, and that of the small intestine has a smooth wall.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mucosa of the small intestine has microvilli to increase the surface area for absorption, while the large intestine's mucosa does not have microvilli, as its primary function is to absorb water and salts rather than nutrients.

All Parts of the Digestive Tract Have a Mucosa Layer