The large intestine is the last part of the digestive system that consists of several structures and divisions.
Explanation:
1. Cecum: The large intestine begins with a pouch-like structure called the cecum. It is located in the lower right abdomen and receives the undigested food material from the small intestine through a valve-like structure called the ileocecal valve.
2. Ascending colon: The cecum is connected to the ascending colon, which runs vertically on the right side of the abdomen. The ascending colon then turns sharply near the liver, forming a right angle called the hepatic flexure.
3. Transverse colon: The ascending colon continues horizontally across the abdomen, from right to left, forming the transverse colon. It is located below the liver and stomach and is supported by a structure called the transverse mesocolon.
4. Splenic flexure: At the end of the transverse colon, the colon makes another sharp turn called the splenic flexure or left colic flexure. This is located near the spleen in the upper left abdomen.
5. Descending colon: After the splenic flexure, the transverse colon turns downward and forms the descending colon. It runs vertically along the left side of the abdomen.
6. Sigmoid colon: The descending colon leads to the sigmoid colon, which is an S-shaped structure located in the lower left abdomen. It connects the descending colon to the rectum.
7. Rectum: The last section of the large intestine is the rectum. It is a muscular tube that serves as a temporary storage site for feces before they are eliminated from the body through the anus.
Overall, the large intestine can be divided into several parts, including the cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum. These structures work together to absorb water, electrolytes, and vitamins, as well as facilitate the formation and elimination of feces.