NextPrevious

Why is the small intestine longer than the large intestine?

Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Read more from
Chapter Digestive System

The descriptive terms “small” and “long” refer to the diameter of the intestine rather than the length. The diameter of the small intestine is only approximately 1 inch (2.5 centimeters), while the diameter of the large intestine is 2.5 to 3.0 inches (6.5 to 7.5 centimeters).