Final answer:
The blood vessels surrounding the villi of the small intestine transport absorbed materials to the liver via the hepatic portal vein, where they are processed or stored for later use, making the correct answer D) Liver.
Step-by-step explanation:
Blood vessels that surround the villi of the small intestine carry absorbed materials through the portal circulation primarily to the liver. The hepatic portal vein transports nutrient-rich blood, which includes proteins and carbohydrates absorbed by the mucosal cells, from the small intestine to the liver. This organ plays a critical role in regulating the distribution of nutrients throughout the body and detoxifying substances such as drugs and alcohol. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is D) Liver.
The Peritoneum
The peritoneum is a membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and envelops the abdominal organs, including the small intestine with its many finger-like projections called villi. These villi, covered with microvilli, greatly increase the surface area for absorption, enhancing the efficiency with which nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. Once absorbed, these nutrients are carried to the liver through the hepatic portal vein where they are processed or stored.