The small intestine is the primary site for absorbing water and salts from food.

Here's why:

* Large Surface Area: The small intestine has a huge surface area due to folds, villi, and microvilli, maximizing absorption.

* Specialized Cells: It contains specialized cells that actively transport water and salts into the bloodstream.

* Water-Soluble Nutrients: The digested food in the small intestine is primarily in the form of water-soluble nutrients, making absorption efficient.

While the large intestine also absorbs some water, its main role is to absorb remaining salts and form solid waste.