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The first part of the small intestine is the duodenum. This section is crucial because it is where the digestive process begins after food exits the stomach. The duodenum is responsible for mixing the partially digested food with bile from the liver and pancreatic juices, which contain enzymes essential for further breakdown of food.

In the gastrointestinal tract, the order of the small intestine is critical for understanding digestion and absorption. Following the duodenum, the jejunum is the second part, where most nutrient absorption occurs, and the ileum is the last section, which continues the absorption process, particularly for vitamin B12 and bile acids. The cecum is not a part of the small intestine; it is located at the start of the large intestine, receiving undigested food from the ileum. Therefore, knowing the anatomy and functions of these parts is important for understanding the digestion process.