Question

In humans, the majority of digestion occurs in which part of the digestive system?

1) the oral mucosa and the esophagus
2) the esophagus and the stomach
3) the small intestines
4) the large intestines

Answer 1

The majority of digestion in humans occurs in the small intestines, where enzymatic digestion and nutrient absorption take place.

Step-by-step explanation:

In humans, the majority of digestion occurs in the small intestines. Although the process of digestion begins in the mouth with mastication and the action of saliva, it is in the small intestine where the majority of enzymatic digestion and nutrient absorption occur. Through the actions of enzymes produced by the small intestine itself, the liver, and the pancreas, the small intestine breaks down food particles further, and the epithelial cells lining the walls of the small intestine absorb nutrients into the bloodstream. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and compacts the remaining waste into feces for excretion.