Questions: 13. QUESTION What is the function of the small intestine? Propulsion of feces to the rectum Compaction of waste to feces Absorption of nutrients Mastication Next

The answer is the third one: Absorption of nutrients.

Explanation for each option:

1. Propulsion of feces to the rectum: This function is primarily associated with the large intestine, not the small intestine. The large intestine is responsible for moving waste towards the rectum for eventual excretion.

2. Compaction of waste to feces: This is also a function of the large intestine. The large intestine absorbs water and salts from the material that has not been digested as food, and compacts it into feces.

3. Absorption of nutrients: This is the correct function of the small intestine. The small intestine is the primary site for the digestion and absorption of nutrients. It has a highly folded surface with villi and microvilli that increase the surface area for absorption.

4. Mastication: Mastication, or chewing, is a function of the mouth, not the small intestine. It involves the mechanical breakdown of food into smaller pieces to facilitate digestion.

Summary: The small intestine's primary function is the absorption of nutrients from digested food.