Problem 96 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Digestion of carbohydrates starts from (a) Buccal cavity (b) Stomach (c) Small intestine (d) Large intestine

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Carbohydrate digestion begins in the buccal cavity (Option (a)).

Step 1: Understand the Digestion Process

Digestion is a complex process that involves the breakdown of food by mechanical and enzymatic action in the alimentary canal into substances that can be used by the body. It is important to know that different nutrients are digested in various parts of the digestive system. It will help to identify correctly where the digestion of carbohydrates begins.

Step 2: Identify the Function of Each Digestive Part

Different parts of the digestive system have different functions. The buccal cavity or mouth is where digestion begins with mechanical breakdown of food by teeth and chemical breakdown by salivary enzymes. Stomach further mixes food with stomach acids to breakdown proteins. Small intestine is where most of the nutrients, including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are digested and absorbed. Large intestine is mostly responsible for absorption of water.

Step 3: Find Where Carbohydrate Digestion Begins

Carbohydrates, specifically the complex sugars, begin to be digested in the mouth where salivary amylase starts breaking down starch into maltose which is a simpler sugar. Hence, carbohydrate digestion starts in the buccal cavity.