Which part of the digestive system is responsible for absorbing water and minerals?

The large intestine is primarily responsible for absorbing water and minerals from the undigested food that reaches it. As the contents pass through the large intestine, the body extracts moisture, which is crucial for maintaining hydration and optimal body function. Any remaining waste is then stored in the rectum before being expelled from the body as stool. This process of absorption in the large intestine helps regulate the body's water balance and ensures that essential minerals are reabsorbed.

In contrast, the small intestine is mainly focused on the digestion and absorption of nutrients, the stomach is involved in the breakdown of food using acids and enzymes, and the esophagus serves simply as a passageway for food to move from the mouth to the stomach. Therefore, the unique function of the large intestine in absorbing water and minerals makes it the correct answer.