NCERT Class 10 Science — Chapter 1: Life Processes

mcqeasy

The finger-like projections found in the lining of the small intestine, which increase the surface area for absorption, are known as:

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

ACilia
BVilli
CRugae
DStomata

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Solution

The correct option is Villi.

Explanation

The small intestine is the principal site for the absorption of digested nutrients. To facilitate this process efficiently, the internal structure of the intestine is adapted to maximize the available surface area.

Villi: These are numerous microscopic, finger-like projections extending from the mucosal lining of the small intestine. They significantly increase the surface area for absorption. Each villus contains a network of capillaries and a large lymph vessel (lacteal) to transport absorbed nutrients into the bloodstream and lymphatic system.
Cilia: These are hair-like organelles found on the surface of certain cells, such as in the respiratory tract (to move mucus) or fallopian tubes. They are primarily involved in motility or sensory functions, not nutrient absorption in the intestine.
Rugae: These are folds or ridges found in the lining of the stomach, allowing the organ to expand when filled with food. They are not the absorptive structures of the small intestine.
Stomata: These are microscopic pores found on the epidermis of plant leaves and stems, essential for gas exchange and transpiration in plants. They are unrelated to animal physiology.

Key Takeaway: Villi are the specialized structural adaptations in the small intestine designed to increase surface area, thereby ensuring rapid and efficient absorption of digested food.

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More from Chapter 1: Life Processes

Which enzyme, present in saliva and pancreatic juice, is primarily responsible for the breakdown of starch into simpler sugars?

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The accumulation of which compound in muscle cells leads to cramps during sudden physical activity or anaerobic respiration?

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Which hair-like structures lining the upper respiratory tract help in filtering air by trapping dust and particles?

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In the circulatory system of fishes, the heart is characteristically composed of how many chambers?

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With reference to maintenance functions in organisms, consider the following statements: 1. The transfer of energy source from outside to inside is referred to as respiration. 2. These processes require energy sourced from outside the body. 3. All organisms obtain energy directly from sunlight. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The correct option is Villi.

Explanation

Villi: These are numerous microscopic, finger-like projections extending from the mucosal lining of the small intestine. They significantly increase the surface area for absorption. Each villus contains a network of capillaries and a large lymph vessel (lacteal) to transport absorbed nutrients into the bloodstream and lymphatic system.
Cilia: These are hair-like organelles found on the surface of certain cells, such as in the respiratory tract (to move mucus) or fallopian tubes. They are primarily involved in motility or sensory functions, not nutrient absorption in the intestine.
Rugae: These are folds or ridges found in the lining of the stomach, allowing the organ to expand when filled with food. They are not the absorptive structures of the small intestine.
Stomata: These are microscopic pores found on the epidermis of plant leaves and stems, essential for gas exchange and transpiration in plants. They are unrelated to animal physiology.

Key Takeaway: Villi are the specialized structural adaptations in the small intestine designed to increase surface area, thereby ensuring rapid and efficient absorption of digested food.