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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic shared by both amylase and pepsin?
A
They are both produced in the pancreas.
B
They both function as digestive enzymes.
C
They both hydrolyze proteins into amino acids.
D
They are both most active at highly acidic pH.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of amylase and pepsin: Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates (specifically starches) into simpler sugars, while pepsin is an enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides.
Identify the shared characteristic: Both amylase and pepsin are digestive enzymes, meaning they catalyze the breakdown of macromolecules into smaller units that can be absorbed by the body.
Analyze the incorrect options: Amylase is produced in the pancreas and salivary glands, while pepsin is produced in the stomach. Therefore, the statement 'They are both produced in the pancreas' is incorrect.
Evaluate the pH activity: Amylase functions optimally at a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (around pH 7-8), while pepsin is most active at a highly acidic pH (around pH 1-2). Thus, the statement 'They are both most active at highly acidic pH' is incorrect.
Clarify the hydrolysis function: Amylase hydrolyzes carbohydrates, not proteins, while pepsin hydrolyzes proteins into peptides, not amino acids directly. Therefore, the statement 'They both hydrolyze proteins into amino acids' is incorrect.