What organ can absorb 5 to 7 liters of water per day in the human body?

Prepare for the 68W Limited Primary Care (LPC) Level 2 Test with interactive questions, hints, and explanations. Master key concepts and boost your confidence for exam success!

The correct answer is the large intestine, which plays a crucial role in water absorption in the digestive system. The large intestine, also known as the colon, is responsible for reclaiming water from the digested food material that has moved through the intestines. It can absorb approximately 5 to 7 liters of water daily, which is vital for maintaining the body's fluid balance.

This absorption process is essential as it helps to consolidate waste material into feces and also prevents excessive loss of water, which could lead to dehydration. The design and function of the large intestine are specifically adapted to efficiently recover water as the semi-digested food passes through it.

In contrast, the stomach primarily serves to break down food through mechanical and chemical processes rather than absorption. While the small intestine does absorb a significant amount of nutrients and some water, it does not reach the same level of water absorption capacity as the large intestine. The pancreas, on the other hand, is involved in producing digestive enzymes and hormones but does not directly participate in water absorption.

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