How many components make up the small intestine?

The small intestine is divided into three main parts: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. 

Each part has a unique structure and function, and all three work together to perform the critical task of breaking down and absorbing nutrients from the food we eat. 

The duodenum is the first part of the stomach and receives partially digested food from the liver and pancreas and mixes it with digestive juices from the liver. 

The jejunum is the middle part of the small intestine and is the primary site of nutrient absorption, and its walls are lined with finger-like projections called villi and microvilli. 

The ileum is the final and longest part of the intestine. It continues the process of nutrient absorption that begins in the jejunum. Any remaining nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the liver and other tissues for further processing and utilization.