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Villi in the small intestine

Diagram of the villi in the small intestine.

The small intestine is about 40 metres long. Its pH increases due to secretions from the pancreas, and there is a lot of enzymatic digestion of nutrients. The surface is covered with fine villi (finger-like projections). These increase surface area, allowing for maximum absorption of nutrients, proteins and fatty acids. The villi in the small intestine of a cow have a similar structure and function as those in other mammals, like humans.

Image: © The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato

Glossary

Rights: The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato
Published: 31 March 2021Updated: 26 August 2025Size: 2.33 MB
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