Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which type of reaction is primarily catalyzed by enzymes in the digestive tract?
A
Dehydration synthesis
B
Phosphorylation
C
Oxidation
D
Hydrolysis
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in the digestive tract: Enzymes in the digestive system primarily function to break down macromolecules (such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids) into smaller, absorbable units.
Define hydrolysis: Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction where water is used to break bonds in molecules, splitting them into smaller components. This process is essential for digestion.
Relate hydrolysis to digestion: In the digestive tract, enzymes catalyze hydrolysis reactions to break down complex molecules like polysaccharides into monosaccharides, proteins into amino acids, and lipids into glycerol and fatty acids.
Differentiate hydrolysis from other reactions: Dehydration synthesis involves forming bonds by removing water, phosphorylation involves adding phosphate groups, and oxidation involves the loss of electrons. These reactions are not the primary function of digestive enzymes.
Conclude that hydrolysis is the correct answer: Based on the function of digestive enzymes and the nature of the reactions they catalyze, hydrolysis is the primary type of reaction occurring in the digestive tract.