The colon is a part of the large intestine; it is not separate from it. Think of it like this: the large intestine is the overarching structure, and the colon is a component within that structure.
According to the provided reference, the colon and rectum are parts of the large intestine. The reference also states that the colon is a U-shaped tube made of muscle, found below the stomach. The rectum is another part of the large intestine, connected to the colon. Together, the colon and rectum are about 2 metres (6.5 feet) long.
Here's a table summarizing the relationship:
| Feature | Large Intestine | Colon |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The final part of the digestive system | A major part of the large intestine |
| Components | Colon, Rectum, Cecum, Appendix | A U-shaped tube of muscle |
| Location | Connected to the small intestine | Located below the stomach |
| Approximate Length | Varies, but colon and rectum are 2m total | Varies, but the colon and rectum are 2m total together |
