Problem 13 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

The conversion of maltose to glucose is possible by the enzyme (a) zymase (b) lactase (c) maltase (d) diastase

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The enzyme that converts maltose to glucose is maltase.

Step 1: Understand the Problem

The question is asking which enzyme can convert maltose, a type of sugar, into glucose, another type of sugar. We must identify the enzyme responsible for this conversion.

Step 2: Review the Function of Each Enzyme

- Zymase is a complex of enzymes that catalyze the fermentation of sugars into alcohol in yeast cells. - Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose. - Maltase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of maltose to two glucose molecules. - Diastase is a group of enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of starch into maltose.

Step 3: Determine the Correct Enzyme

Based on the descriptions, maltase is the enzyme that converts maltose directly into glucose. Other enzymes are responsible for different reactions involving other sugars.

Key Concepts

Maltase

Maltase is a very important enzyme found primarily in the small intestine. It plays a crucial role in carbohydrate digestion. This enzyme specifically targets a sugar called maltose. By catalyzing the hydrolysis of maltose, maltase helps convert it into two molecules of glucose. This transformation is essential, as glucose is a fundamental energy source for the body's cells. Without enzymes like maltase, our bodies would struggle to efficiently convert the carbohydrates we consume into a usable form of energy.

Here's a simple overview of maltase's role:

• Location: Primarily in the small intestine.
• Function: Catalyzes the breakdown of maltose into glucose.
• Importance: Facilitates energy production by providing glucose from carbohydrate digestion.

By understanding maltase and its functions, we can see how critical it is in ensuring our bodies get the necessary energy from our diets. It's fascinating how such a specific enzyme carries out such a crucial task within our digestive systems.

Maltose to Glucose Conversion

The conversion of maltose to glucose is a specific reaction facilitated by the enzyme maltase. Maltose is a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules linked together. When maltase acts on maltose, it breaks this bond, releasing two separate glucose units.

This process is known as hydrolysis. Here's how it works:

• Maltase binds to maltose, targeting the bond between the glucose units.
• The enzyme hydrolyzes the bond, effectively splitting maltose into two glucose molecules.
• These glucose molecules are then free to enter the bloodstream, where they are used as an energy source by cells.

Understanding this conversion process is vital. It highlights how the body breaks down complex carbohydrates after food consumption and allows us to appreciate the efficiency of our digestive system in energy production.

Carbohydrate Enzymes

Carbohydrate enzymes are specialized proteins that help break down carbohydrates into simpler sugars. This breakdown process is crucial for energy production in our bodies. Without these enzymes, complicated sugars from our diet could not be efficiently converted into energy.

Maltase is among these carbohydrates enzymes, alongside others such as lactase, amylase, and sucrase. Here’s a quick look at their functions:

• Maltase: Converts maltose into glucose.
• Lactase: Breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.
• Amylase: Catalyzes the conversion of starch into maltose.
• Sucrase: Splits sucrose into glucose and fructose.

These enzymes ensure that the carbohydrates we ingest are broken down correctly, allowing for the effective absorption of sugars into the bloodstream to fuel our body’s cells. Their importance cannot be overstated, as they are instrumental in maintaining our energy levels and overall well-being.