The major function of the colon, or large intestine, is the
A) digestive breakdown of foods.
B) absorption of nutrients from foods.
C) housing of parasitic bacteria.
D) secretion of bile and enzymes.
E) reabsorption of ions and water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The large intestine, or colon, primarily functions to reabsorb water and ions from the remaining indigestible material that enters it from the small intestine. This helps to consolidate waste material and form feces for excretion. While some bacterial fermentation may occur in the colon, its primary function is not related to housing parasitic bacteria, secreting bile and enzymes, or digesting and absorbing nutrients from food.

The Major Function of the Colon, or Large Intestine, Is