Which part of the small intestine receives partially digested food from the stomach?

The small intestine is divided into three main sections: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, each playing a specific role in digestion. The duodenum is the first section of the small intestine and is critical for receiving chyme, which is the semi-liquid mass of partially digested food mixed with gastric juices that comes from the stomach. This section is where the initial stages of nutrient absorption begin, and it is also responsible for mixing chyme with digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver, further aiding digestion.

The jejunum and ileum, which follow the duodenum, are primarily involved in the absorption of nutrients. The jejunum mainly absorbs carbohydrates, proteins, and some vitamins, while the ileum plays a significant role in absorbing bile acids and vitamin B12. The colon, on the other hand, is not part of the small intestine and is focused on water absorption and the formation of feces. Thus, the duodenum is specifically designed to receive chyme from the stomach, making it the correct answer.