Question

Define the term absorption

Answer 1

This process is called ABSORPTION and it occurs in the small intestine. As you have already learnt, the small intestine is specially adapted for this function. Molecules can pass from the cavity (lumen) of the small intestine through the epithelium of the villi into the blood capillary network or the lacteals.


During the process of absorption, nutrients that come from the food (including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals) pass through channels in the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream. The blood works to distribute these nutrients to the rest of the body.

Absorption is a condition in which something takes in another substance. In many processes important in technology, the chemical absorption is used in place of the physical process, e.g., absorption of carbon dioxide by sodium hydroxide – such acid-base processes do not follow the Nernst partition law.

Answer 2

The process by which one thing is absorbs or absorbed by another.               In other words Absorption means Suction