CBSE Class 10 Answered

Small intestine shows 3 parts - duodenum, jejenum and ileum. Duodenum is the first and shortest part of the small intestine. It begins from the end of stomach. Though the duodenum is such a tiny fraction of the small intestine, it is the site of most of the breakdown of the food passing through it. The duodenum is lined with Brunner's glands, which secrete an alkaline mucus that supports the intestinal enzymes and aids in the absorption of nutrients. During digestion, duodenum receives juices from pancreas and gall bladder. After foods combine with stomach acid, they move down into the duodenum. Absorption of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients begins in the duodenum.