Large intestine
- It is a 1.5m long tube that extends from the Small intestine to the anus.
- It extends from the ileocaecal valve to the inner anal sphincter. It is wider and smaller than the small intestine.
- It is divided into three parts-
Caecum: It is also known as a Blind sac. In Caecum, the Vermiform appendix is present which is a vestigial lymphoid organ. Symbiotic microbes are also present in the caecum helps:
- In the formation of vitamin K and some vitamin B.
- In maintaining local immunity.
- In fermentation of undigested food.
Colon: The Colon is further divided into four regions, namely, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, and sigmoid colon. It is made up of three longitudinal muscles (known as ‘Taenia Coli’) and circular muscles. It is divided into smaller units known as ‘Haustra‘.
Rectum: It stores undigested fermented food.
Small Intestine and Large Intestine
Difference Between Small Intestine And Large Intestine
Small Intestine and the Large intestine are the tubular structures starting from the stomach to the anus. They differ in their functions. The small intestine helps in the digestion and absorption of food whereas the large intestine helps in the absorption of water and electrolytes.