. Describe the enzymatic digestion that takes place in each structure of the digestive tract
What will be an ideal response?
Enzymatic digestion in humans starts in the mouth. Amylase from the salivary glands begins the
digestion of starches. This digestion only takes place while the food is in the mouth and during the
quick trip down the esophagus. When the amylase contacts strong stomach acids, it is denatured. In the
stomach, however, pepsin begins the digestion of proteins. Once the food reaches the small intestine,
digestion is completed, primarily due to the action of the enzymes produced by accessory structures.
The liver secretes bile that serves to emulsify fats, which makes it easier for the lipase (secreted by the
pancreas) to digest the fats. Pancreatic juice also contains trypsin to complete the digestion of proteins
and amylase to complete the digestion of starches. At this point, the nutrients are in a simplified,
usable form and ready to be absorbed by the small intestine.
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a. A. b. B. c. C. d. D. e. E.
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