Which of the following organ is the longest part of the alimentary canal in the humans?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: Small Intestine.
Explanation:
In the human digestive system, the small intestine is the longest part of the alimentary canal.
Length: In an adult human, its average length is approximately 6 to 7 meters (about 20–22 feet). Although it is called the 'small' intestine, this name refers to its diameter, not its length.
Structure: It is arranged inside the abdomen in a highly coiled form so that it can fit within a limited space.
Function: The final digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients primarily take place here.
Comparison with other parts of the alimentary canal (for revision):
Competitive examinations often feature questions regarding the functions and locations of these organs:
Organ Name - Key Facts
Buccal Cavity - The process of digestion begins here.
Oesophagus - This is a tube approximately 25 cm long that transports food to the stomach.
Liver - It is the largest gland in the body (not a part of the alimentary canal itself, but an accessory organ).
Large Intestine - Its length is approximately 1.5 meters, which is significantly shorter than that of the small intestine.
The three main parts of the Small Intestine:
Duodenum: This is a 'C'-shaped section where bile juice and pancreatic juice mix.
Jejunum: The middle section, where the process of absorption is most rapid.
Ileum: The final section, which connects to the large intestine.
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: In which part of the alimentary canal does the complete digestion of food occur?
Answer: Small Intestine.
Question: Which is the largest gland in the human body?
Answer: Liver. Question: What are the finger-like structures on the inner wall of the small intestine called?
Answer: Villi, which increase the surface area for absorption.