HOW THE STRUCTURE OF A VILLUS IS RELATED TO ITS ROLE IN ABSORPTION OF THE END PRODUCTS OF DIGESTION

The structure of the small intestine is specially adapted for absorption to occur efficiently. It has many folds, which help increase the surface area. The lining is covered in tiny projections called villi (singular villus). The villi increase the surface area even more, making absorption even more efficient. Use a textbook to help you label and colour this diagram of a villus.
Draw a close up of a single cell lining the villus (see below,(c))

Now study the drawing below, showing a three-dimensional view of some villi. Make sure you can identify the structures which help them perform their function and explain how each structure helps.

Now explain in your own words how the structure of a villus is related to its role in the absorption of the end-products of digestion. You should be able to identify at least four ways!

Reasons why villi increase absorption

1. Increase surface area lots of absorption happens 2. Moist conditions things diffuse faster when they are dissolved 3. Good blood supply - lots of substances can be taken away quickly 4. Thin walls faster diffusion 5. Mitochondria lots of energy for active transport