Question

What is the role of saliva in the digestive system? a. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which starts the chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down proteins. b. Saliva contains an enzyme called lipase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down proteins. c. Saliva contains an enzyme called maltase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down carbohydrates. d. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down carbohydrates.

Name: Problem 40, Chapter 25: Biology for AP Courses
Uploaded: 2019-08-18T16:45:41-08:00
Duration: 46 s
Channel: James Thierer

   What is the role of saliva in the digestive system?

a. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which starts the chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down proteins.
b. Saliva contains an enzyme called lipase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down proteins.
c. Saliva contains an enzyme called maltase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down carbohydrates.
d. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down carbohydrates.

Biology for AP Courses

Julianne Zedalis,…

Chapter 25, Problem 40

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Solved by Expert James Thierer

08/18/2019

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We know that saliva contains an enzyme that aids in digestion. Show more…

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What is the role of saliva in the digestive system? a. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which starts the chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down proteins. b. Saliva contains an enzyme called lipase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down proteins. c. Saliva contains an enzyme called maltase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down carbohydrates. d. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which starts chemical digestion in the mouth by breaking down carbohydrates.

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Key Concepts

Chemical Digestion

Chemical digestion is the process by which complex food molecules are broken down into simpler molecules through the action of enzymes. This occurs throughout the digestive system, beginning in the mouth, where enzymes start modifying food components into forms that can be absorbed later.

Amylase

Amylase is an enzyme found in saliva that specifically catalyzes the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, such as starches, into simpler sugars. This enzymatic reaction marks the beginning of carbohydrate digestion in the mouth, making further digestion more efficient as food moves through the gastrointestinal tract.

Saliva

Saliva is a digestive fluid produced by salivary glands that serves multiple roles in the digestive process, including lubricating food for easier swallowing, initiating the breakdown of food components, and maintaining oral health by protecting teeth and mucosal surfaces.

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