Assertion (A): The small intestine has a highly folded inner surface area for efficient absorption of nutrients.
Reason (R): The small intestine contains finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for absorption.
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are the true and Reason (R) is a correct explanation of Assertion (A).
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are the true but Reason (R) is not a correct explanation of Assertion (A).
Assertion (A) is true and Reason (R) is false.
Assertion (A) is false and Reason (R) is true.
The small intestine is an organ that is essential for nutrient absorption from digested food. The small intestine's inner surface is strongly folded into tiny finger-like projections known as villi, which considerably increase its surface area for absorption. Columnar epithelial cells, which are specialized for nutrient absorption, line the villi. Microvilli on the apical surface of these cells expand their surface area even further.
The small intestine also contains intestinal glands that release digestive enzymes and mucus to aid in food breakdown and intestinal wall lubrication. As a result, the small intestine's highly folded inner surface, combined with the presence of villi and intestinal glands, makes it an excellent site for nutrition absorption.
Hence, the correct answer is option 1.