A drug is given to an animal that completely blocks the absorption of nutrients within the digestive system. Which of the following structures is most severely impacted by this treatment?

Options

A. Intestine
B. Buccal cavity
C. Crop
D. Stomach

Answer

To solve the question regarding which structure is most severely impacted by a drug that blocks the absorption of nutrients within the digestive system, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question states that a drug is given to an animal that completely blocks the absorption of nutrients in the digestive system. We need to identify which structure in the digestive system would be most affected by this blockage.

2. **Identifying the Structures**: The options provided are:
- A) Intestine
- B) Buccal cavity
- C) Crop
- D) Stomach

3. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Buccal Cavity**: This is where the food is initially processed (masticated) with the help of teeth and saliva. However, absorption does not occur here.
- **Crop**: This is an organ found in some animals (like birds) that stores food temporarily. It does not play a significant role in nutrient absorption.
- **Stomach**: The stomach is primarily involved in the digestion of food, breaking it down into a semi-liquid form, but it is not the main site for nutrient absorption.
- **Intestine**: The small intestine is the primary site for the absorption of nutrients. This is where digested food is absorbed into the bloodstream.

4. **Conclusion**: Since the question specifically mentions the blockage of nutrient absorption, the structure that would be most severely impacted is the **intestine**, particularly the small intestine, where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs.

### Final Answer:
The structure most severely impacted by the drug that blocks the absorption of nutrients is **A) Intestine**.

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