Question

Which is the first enzyme to mix with food in the digestive tract?

• A. Pepsin
• B. Cellulase
• C. Amylase
• D. Trypsin

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Amylase

The correct option is C.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Amylase is a salivary enzyme.
2. It is the first enzyme that mixes with the food in the mouth.
3. It acts on carbohydrates in the mouth.
4. Amylase breaks polysaccharides down into maltose ( a disaccharide consisting of two glucose molecules).
5. About 30 percent of starch is hydrolyzed here by this enzyme into a disaccharide – maltose.
6. Pancreatic amylase produced by the cells in the pancreas finishes the digestion of carbohydrates, producing glucose.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A: Pepsin is an enzyme in the gastric juice that digests protein.

Option B: Cellulase enzyme is not present in humans. It is used for the breakdown of cellulose.

Option D: Trypsin is an enzyme that acts on protein in the small intestine.

Final answer: Amylase is the first enzyme to mix with food in the digestive tract.