Question

The correct statement regarding the function of amylase is:

• A. Breaks down proteins into amino acids
• B. Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol
• C. Breaks down starch into simple sugars
• D. Breaks down DNA into nucleotides

Hint:

Amylase is the first enzyme in the digestive system that begins the breakdown of carbohydrates, so it is crucial for efficient energy extraction from foods containing starch.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Amylase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the digestion of carbohydrates. It specifically breaks down starch, a complex carbohydrate, into simpler sugars like maltose and dextrin. This process begins in the mouth with salivary amylase and continues in the small intestine with pancreatic amylase.
Proteins are broken down into amino acids by enzymes like protease, not amylase.
Fats are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol by lipase, not amylase.
DNA is broken down into nucleotides by nuclease, not amylase.

Thus, the correct function of amylase is to break down starch into simpler sugars.