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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is achieved by muscle contractions in the small intestine?
A
Mixing of chyme with digestive enzymes
B
Production of bile
C
Secretion of insulin
D
Absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the small intestine in digestion: The small intestine is responsible for digestion and absorption of nutrients. It uses muscle contractions to facilitate these processes.
Learn about the types of muscle contractions in the small intestine: The small intestine uses two types of contractions—segmentation and peristalsis. Segmentation helps mix chyme with digestive enzymes, while peristalsis moves the chyme forward.
Focus on the function of segmentation: Segmentation involves localized contractions of circular muscles in the intestinal wall, which mix chyme with digestive enzymes and increase contact with the intestinal lining for absorption.
Eliminate incorrect options: Production of bile occurs in the liver, not the small intestine. Secretion of insulin is a function of the pancreas. Absorption of nutrients is a result of digestion but is not directly achieved by muscle contractions.
Conclude that the correct answer is related to segmentation: Muscle contractions in the small intestine primarily achieve the mixing of chyme with digestive enzymes, which is essential for effective digestion.