Which statement best describes the function of the large intestine?

• A. Reabsorbs water to form solid waste
• B. Digests proteins
• C. Secretes bile for fat digestion
• D. Absorbs most nutrients from chyme

Answer: (A)

The large intestine mainly reabsorbs water from indigestible material and forms solid waste. As chyme moves through the colon, water and some electrolytes are taken back into the body, which concentrates the remaining material into feces. Digestion of proteins happens earlier—in the stomach and small intestine with various proteases—so the large intestine isn’t where protein digestion occurs. Bile for fat digestion is produced by the liver and released into the small intestine, not secreted by the large intestine. Most nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine, where the bulk of digestion and absorption takes place.