Digestive System Flashcards
What is digestion?
Digestion is where large insoluble molecules are broken down into smaller soluble ones that can be absorbed into the bloodstream
How and where does digestion occur?
Digestion occurs in the gut and it relies on enzymes
Where is amylase released and what does it breakdown?
Amylase is released in the salivary gland and pancreas, and it breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars
Where is protease released and what does it breakdown?
Protease is released in the stomach and pancreas, and it breaks down proteins into amino acids
Where is lipase released and what does it breakdown?
Lipase is released in the pancreas, and it breaks down fats and oils (lipids) into fatty acids and glycerol
What is the lock and key theory?
The lock and key theory is a model to explain enzyme action. Enzymes are made up of proteins and are biological catalysts the shape of the active site of the enzyme is specific for each substrate (substance the enzyme acts on).
What are the products of digestion used for?
The products of digestion are used to build new carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins in the body. Some glucose is used in respiration.
What happens when you increase the temperature in enzyme reactions?
In enzyme reactions, increasing the temperature will initially increase the rate of reaction due to the increased collisions between the enzyme and substrate, but if the temperature is too high, the enzymes will denature
In which conditions does the stomach acid work best in?
In acidic conditions
In which conditions does the enzymes made in the pancreas and small intestine work best in?
In alkaline conditions
Where is bile made and stored?
Bile is made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder
Describe the function of bile
It is alkaline to neutralize hydrochloric acid from the stomach. It also emulsifies fat to form small droplets which increase the surface area. The alkaline conditions and large surface area, increase the rate of fat breakdown by lipase
