Biology 1.3 Digestion

What is digestion?

The breakdown of large insoluble molecules of food into smaller soluble molecules.

Why is digestion important?

Large molecules are too big to be absorbed across the surface of the gut wall so must be broken down. Ensures food molecules are soluble so that they can be transported to cells in the bloodstream.

What type of molecules are proteins and carbohydrates?

Polymers.

During digestion, carbohydrates are broken down into __________

Simple sugars.

Which group of enzymes catalyses the breakdown of carbohydrates?

Carbohydrases.

Where are carbohydrases produced?

Mouth, pancreas, small intestine.

During digestion, proteins are broken down into __________

Amino acids.

Which type of enzyme catalyses the breakdown of proteins?

Proteases.

Where are proteases produced?

Stomach, small intestine.

During digestion, lipids are broken down into _______ and _______

Fatty acids and glycerol.

Which type of enzyme catalyses the breakdown of lipids?

Lipases.

Where are lipases produced?

Pancreas, small intestine.