OCR GCSE Biology Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success

Question: 1 / 1090

What is the primary function of villi in the small intestine?

To produce bile

To increase surface area for absorption

The primary function of villi in the small intestine is to increase the surface area for absorption. Villi are small, finger-like projections that line the walls of the small intestine. Their structure significantly enhances the intestinal surface area, allowing for more efficient absorption of nutrients from digested food. This increased surface area is crucial for the absorption of essential nutrients, such as amino acids, fatty acids, and sugars, which are vital for the body’s functioning.

The villi are covered with even smaller hair-like structures called microvilli, which further amplify this absorptive surface. This combination of villi and microvilli creates a vast area for nutrient absorption, making the small intestine highly effective at transferring nutrients into the bloodstream.

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To secrete enzymes

To absorb water only

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