Chapter 35, Problem 4A

Summary Introduction

Introduction :

The digestive system breaks down the food so that nutrients can be absorbed by the body. There are three primary functions of the digestive system. The digestive system absorbs food, breaks it down so that nutrients can be absorbed and removes that cannot be digested.

Answer to Problem 4A

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option (B) Proteins are broken down.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Option (B) Proteins are broken down. The acidic condition in the stomach is suitable for the activity of pepsin. Pepsin is an enzyme active in the process of chemical protein digestion. Cells in the lining of the stomach secrete mucus to help prevent damage from the pepsin and the acidic environment. So, the correct answer is option (B).

Explanation for incorrect answer :

Option (A) Large fat molecules are digested into smaller molecules. In the liver, the large fat molecules are digested into smaller molecules with the help of bile juice. So, this is an incorrect option.

Option (C) Amylase breaks down starches into smaller sugar molecules. Amylase is an enzyme found in saliva, begins the process of chemical digestion by breaking down starches into sugars.

This process occurs in our mouth. So, this is an incorrect answer.

Option (D) Insulin is secreted for use in the small intestine. The chemical digestion in the small intestine depends on the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. The pancreas secrets insulin hormone which helps the small intestine uses energy from glucose. So, this is an incorrect answer.