UPSC Prelims 2007 Q111: Science & Technology – Biology

UPSC Prelims 2007, General Studies Paper I · Science & Technology

In the human body, to which structure is the appendix attached?

Answer: (a) The large intestine

Explanation

Vermiform appendix — attached to the large intestine

Part of large intestine	Fact
Caecum	First part; the appendix hangs from it
Colon	Ascending → transverse → descending → sigmoid
Rectum	Stores faeces

The appendix is a vestigial organ in humans.

In herbivores (like rabbits), the caecum and appendix are large and help digest cellulose.

It also has lymphoid tissue (some immune role).

Appendicitis = inflamed appendix.

Answer: (a) The large intestine.

(a) CORRECT. The appendix arises from the caecum of the large intestine.
(b) Incorrect. The small intestine ends at the ileocaecal valve, where the large intestine begins.
(c) Incorrect. The gall bladder stores bile and has no appendix.
(d) Incorrect. The stomach is not linked to the appendix.

Appendix hangs from the caecum (large intestine); vestigial in humans; useful for cellulose digestion in herbivores.

The appendix is attached to the caecum of the large intestine.

Choosing the small intestine because the appendix is near the junction of the two.
Thinking a vestigial organ has zero function — it still has some lymphoid role.
Forgetting that the appendix is on the lower right side of the abdomen.

Small intestine → ileocaecal valve → caecum (+ appendix) → colon.