The human saliva contains an enzyme called salivary ______ that breaks down starch, a complex molecule, into sugar.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) –amylase
The human saliva contains an enzyme called salivary amylase that breaks down starch, a complex molecule, into sugar.
Explanation:
- Amylase is an enzyme that specifically targets the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, such as starch, into simpler sugars like maltose.
- Salivary amylase is produced in the salivary glands and released into the mouth, where it begins the digestion of starch in the food during the chewing process.
- Lipase, peptidase, and protease are enzymes involved in the digestion of lipids and proteins, respectively, but they are not primarily responsible for breaking down starch.