In which organ does almost all enzymatic digestion of food occur?
a. Stomach
b. Small intestine
c. Large intestine
d. Pancreas

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of each organ listed in the options: The stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and pancreas all play different roles in digestion.
2. Consider the function of the stomach: It primarily breaks down food mechanically and begins protein digestion with the enzyme pepsin.
3. Evaluate the role of the small intestine: It is the site where most enzymatic digestion and nutrient absorption occur, with enzymes from the pancreas and the intestinal lining.
4. Analyze the function of the large intestine: It mainly absorbs water and electrolytes, with minimal digestion occurring.
5. Examine the role of the pancreas: It produces digestive enzymes that are released into the small intestine, aiding in digestion but not directly digesting food itself.

Key Concepts

Enzymatic Digestion

Enzymatic digestion refers to the breakdown of food into smaller molecules by enzymes. These biological catalysts speed up chemical reactions necessary for digestion, allowing nutrients to be absorbed by the body. Enzymes are specific to substrates, meaning they target particular types of food molecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, or fats.

Small Intestine

The small intestine is a crucial organ in the digestive system where most enzymatic digestion and nutrient absorption occur. It is divided into three parts: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The duodenum receives digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver, facilitating the breakdown of food into absorbable units.

Role of Pancreas in Digestion

The pancreas plays a vital role in digestion by producing enzymes that are released into the small intestine. These enzymes include amylase for carbohydrates, lipase for fats, and proteases for proteins. Although the pancreas produces these enzymes, the actual digestion occurs in the small intestine where these enzymes act on the food.