Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of remaining water and electrolytes, and storage of fecal matter

Question 2

Which anatomical structure is NOT retroperitoneal in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Transverse colon

Question 3

A patient is experiencing dehydration due to severe diarrhea. Which process in the large intestine is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water

Question 4

Which type of epithelium is found in most of the large intestine, except for the anal canal?

Accepted Answer

Simple columnar epithelium

Question 5

Which vitamin is synthesized by bacteria in the large intestine and is essential for blood clotting?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin K

Question 6

A patient receives a fecal transplant to treat a recurrent infection. What is the main reason this treatment is effective?

Accepted Answer

It restores healthy bacterial flora in the large intestine

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why the large intestine has more goblet cells than the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

To secrete mucus for lubrication and protection against abrasion

Question 8

Which process is responsible for moving fecal matter through the large intestine and occurs about three to four times per day?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis

Question 9

If the colon is surgically removed, where does the remaining waste material go?

Accepted Answer

It is collected in a sac attached to the abdominal wall (ileostomy)

Question 10

Which of the following bacteria is anaerobic, highly resistant to antibiotics, and can cause severe diarrhea?

Accepted Answer

Pseudodifficile

Question 11

Which equation best represents the relationship between water absorption and stool volume in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

$$V_{stool} = V_{input} - V_{absorbed}$$

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the bacteria in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of B-complex vitamins

Question 13

A patient with a deficiency in vitamin K is at risk for which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Blood clotting disorders

Question 14

Which of the following statements about fiber digestion in the large intestine is correct?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial fermentation partially digests certain carbohydrates, producing acids and gases

Question 15

Which structure marks the transition from the small intestine to the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Ileocecal valve

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why dehydration can lead to death in severe cases of diarrhea?

Accepted Answer

Excessive loss of water and electrolytes, impairing cellular function

Question 17

Which equation describes the rate of peristaltic contractions in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

$$R_{peristalsis} = \frac{N_{contractions}}{T_{day}}$$

Question 18

Which of the following is a consequence of removing the colon and creating an ileostomy?

Accepted Answer

Decreased absorption of water and electrolytes

Question 19

Which of the following is true regarding segmentation in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

It occurs about every 30 minutes and is slower than in the small intestine

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of the mesenteries in the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

They anchor certain parts of the large intestine to the abdominal wall

Anatomy & Physiology of the Large Intestine: Structure, Function, and Clinical Relevance

Study Guide - Practice Questions