Question

what is the importance of villi in the small intestine?
villi decrease the surface area of the small intestine, increasing the rate of absorption.
villi increase the surface area of the small intestine, decreasing the rate of absorption.
villi increase the surface area of the small intestine, increasing the rate of absorption.
villi decrease the surface area of the small intestine, decreasing the rate of absorption.

Explanation:

Villi are finger - like projections in the small intestine. They increase the surface area available for nutrient absorption, thus enhancing the rate of absorption.

Answer:

Villi increase the surface area of the small intestine, increasing the rate of absorption.