Changes

==Structure==

==Structure==

*Attached along it's whole length to the dorsal abdominal wall by [[Peritoneal Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology|mesentry]].

*Attached along it's whole length to the dorsal abdominal wall by [[Peritoneal cavity - Anatomy & Physiology|mesentery]].

*The [[Peritoneal Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology|mesentry]] is relatively long for its most part, giving the small intestine a great deal of mobility.

*The [[Peritoneal cavity - Anatomy & Physiology|mesentery]] is relatively long for its most part, giving the small intestine a great deal of mobility.

*The basic structure of the intestinal wall is conserved throughout the whole length of the alimentary tract, but there is greatest diversity in the epithelial layer.

*The basic structure of the intestinal wall is conserved throughout the whole length of the alimentary tract, but there is greatest diversity in the epithelial layer.

*Within the tunica muscularis are muscles present for peristalis and mixing of food.  

*Within the tunica muscularis are muscles present for peristalis and mixing of food.  

**There are two muscle layers; an inner circular and outer longitudinal layer.

**There are two muscle layers; an inner circular and outer longitudinal layer.

**Between the two muscle layers is the '''myenteric plexus'''.

**Between the two muscle layers is the '''myenteric plexus'''.

**Between the inner circular layer of muscle in the tunica muscularis and the submucosa is the '''submucosal plexus'''. (see regulation and control).

**Between the inner circular layer of muscle in the tunica muscularis and the submucosa is the '''submucosal plexus'''. (see [[#Regulation & Control|regulation and control]]).

==Function==

==Function==