Biology / Unit 12 Bio 2779 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Duodenum, Jejunum, Ileum
Captions available
The idea
The small intestine divides into the duodenum, where chyme meets pancreatic and bile secretions and most chemical digestion occurs; the jejunum, absorbing most nutrients; and the ileum, absorbing bile salts and vitamins.
In practice
The duodenum neutralizes acidic chyme with pancreatic bicarbonate before digestion continues.
Where people slip
The vermiform appendix sits at the ileum's junction with the large intestine but plays no significant digestive role itself.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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