What does pancreatic amylase break down?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the function of pancreatic amylase, specifically what substances it breaks down in the digestive process.
Answer
Pancreatic amylase breaks down starches into simpler sugars.
The final answer is pancreatic amylase breaks down starches into simpler sugars, such as maltose and dextrin, which are further converted into glucose.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is pancreatic amylase breaks down starches into simpler sugars, such as maltose and dextrin, which are further converted into glucose.
More Information
Pancreatic amylase specifically targets starches, breaking them into smaller carbohydrate molecules like maltose and dextrin, which are further processed to form glucose, an essential energy source for the body.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume that amylase breaks down all types of carbohydrates; it mainly targets complex starches.
Sources
- The Digestive Process: What Is the Role of Your Pancreas in Digestion - Hopkins Medicine - hopkinsmedicine.org
- Mention the role of pancreatic amylase - BYJU'S - byjus.com
- Pancreas Functions, Location & Disease - Columbia Surgery - columbiasurgery.org
