This structure increases the surface area of the lining of the small intestine ________.

Question

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Villi are finger-like projections found in the lining of the small intestine that increase the surface area for nutrient absorption. This increased surface area is due to the many folds and tiny projections, called microvilli, on the surface of villi. Peptase is an enzyme that breaks down proteins, lacteals are lymphatic vessels that absorb dietary fats, and chyle is a milky fluid consisting of lymph and emulsified fats absorbed by the lacteals. While all of these things are involved in digestion and absorption, only villi directly increase the surface area of the intestinal lining.

This Structure Increases the Surface Area of the Lining of the Small