Science (086) — AI-generated practice question

Although the large intestine produces no digestive enzymes, it is essential for two reasons:

1. Absorption of water and salts: It absorbs a large amount of water and mineral salts from the undigested food, helping maintain the body's water balance.
2. Excretion of solid waste: The remaining undigested, semi-solid waste (faeces) is stored in the large intestine and eliminated through the anus, completing the process of excretion of solid wastes.

The question tests understanding beyond enzyme-based digestion. Examiners expect two distinct functions: (i) water/salt reabsorption and (ii) formation and elimination of faeces. Note that the source passages focus on the alimentary canal's role in digestion and absorption — the large intestine's role in water absorption and waste elimination is the standard NCERT point to cite here. Avoid writing about enzymes since the question already states none are produced; focus on what it does do.