Which of the following are small finger-like foldings in the small intestine?

The correct answer is Villi.

Key Points

• Villi are small, finger-like projections found in the small intestine.
• They increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.
• Each villus contains a network of capillaries and a lymph vessel to aid in nutrient absorption.
• The epithelial cells on the villi have microvilli, which further increase the surface area.

Important Points

• The primary function of villi is to absorb nutrients from the chyme passing through the small intestine.
• Villi are covered with epithelial cells which are specialized for nutrient absorption.
• The capillaries within the villi transport absorbed nutrients to the liver via the hepatic portal vein.
• The lymph vessels, or lacteals, within the villi are responsible for absorbing fatty acids and glycerol.

Additional Information

• Cortex: The cortex is the outer layer of an organ or structure, such as the brain or kidney, not related to the structure of the small intestine.
• Cristae: Cristae are the folds in the inner membrane of mitochondria, involved in cellular respiration, not part of the small intestine.
• Pili: Pili are hair-like structures on the surface of bacteria, aiding in attachment to surfaces, not related to the small intestine.