What is the small intestine?
The small intestine is called the small intestine. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as the longest part of the digestive tract, about 6 m long.
What it is
- The longest part of the digestive tract, about 6 m long.
- Divided into three parts: duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.
- The chief site of nutrient absorption.
Where it is
- Coiled in the middle of the abdomen.
- Extends from the pylorus of the stomach to the ileocecal junction.
- Surrounded by the frame of the large intestine.
Source:
Last verified: 2026-07-18
- Best Anatomy Answers is an educational reference about human anatomy. It is not medical advice — for any health concern, talk to a licensed medical professional.