Which organ is primarily responsible for the absorption of nutrients after digestion?

The small intestine is primarily responsible for the absorption of nutrients after digestion due to its specialized structure and extensive surface area. This organ is lined with tiny, finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for absorption. The walls of the small intestine also have microvilli, further enhancing its ability to absorb nutrients effectively.

Digestion occurs primarily in the small intestine, where enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver break down food into smaller molecules. Once these nutrients are released, they are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine into the bloodstream. This nutrient-rich blood is then transported to various cells and tissues throughout the body, providing essential substances required for energy, growth, and cellular repair.

While the stomach does participate in the early stages of digestion, it is not designed for significant nutrient absorption. Similarly, the large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes and serves a role in waste excretion rather than nutrient absorption. The pancreas, although crucial for producing digestive enzymes, does not absorb nutrients directly. Thus, the small intestine is the main organ that facilitates the absorption of nutrients, making it the correct answer.