CAIE IGCSE Biology 7.5.3 Significance of Villi and Microvilli Questions

Practise explaining how villi and microvilli on small-intestine epithelial cells increase membrane surface area for faster nutrient absorption.

Exam points

identify microvilli on the lumen-facing surface of small-intestine epithelial cells
explain that villi and microvilli increase internal surface area for absorption
link increased membrane area to faster uptake of glucose, amino acids or other nutrients

[Maximum number: 2]

Fig. 1.1 shows several villi from the ileum, which is part of the small intestine.

Fig. 1.2 shows the tip of a villus in more detail.

Fig. 1.2

The epithelial cells of the villi absorb nutrients by diffusion and active transport.

Explain the importance of the microvilli shown in Fig. 1.2.

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