The anal canal is the final segment of the large intestine that connects the rectum to the anus, facilitating the expulsion of feces from the body. It is typically about 2 to 4 cm long in adults and contains specialized muscles and mucous membranes.
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Rectum: The last major part of the large intestine leading to the anal canal, acting as a temporary storage site for feces before they are expelled.
Sphincters: Circular muscles that encircle and control openings within the body; in context, anal sphincters help control the passage of feces out of the body.
Defecation: The process of expelling feces from the rectum through the anal canal and out of the body