Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The descending colon is a part of the large intestine that transports feces from the transverse colon down to the sigmoid colon. It plays a crucial role in water and nutrient absorption and fecal solidification.
The last section of the digestive system, responsible for water absorption and feces formation.
Sigmoid Colon: A section of the large intestine that connects the descending colon to the rectum, facilitating the movement of solid waste towards elimination.
Transverse Colon: The part of the large intestine that passes horizontally across the abdomen, receiving digested material from the ascending colon and moving it into the descending colon