Which term refers to the breakdown of large molecules into smaller, soluble molecules?

Which term refers to the breakdown of large molecules into smaller, soluble molecules?

• A. Digestion
• B. Absorption
• C. Assimilation
• D. Metabolism

Answer: (A)

Digestive breakdown is the process of breaking down large molecules into smaller, soluble molecules so the body can use them. Enzymes cut big food polymers like starch, proteins, and fats into their basic units—starch becomes simple sugars, proteins become amino acids, and fats become fatty acids and glycerol. This digestion starts in the mouth, continues with stomach acids and enzymes, and is completed in the small intestine where most absorption happens. After digestion, these small molecules can be absorbed into the bloodstream for use by cells. Absorption is about taking in nutrients; assimilation is how cells use those nutrients, and metabolism covers all the chemical reactions in the body, including both breakdown and synthesis.

Digestive breakdown is the process of breaking down large molecules into smaller, soluble molecules so the body can use them. Enzymes cut big food polymers like starch, proteins, and fats into their basic units—starch becomes simple sugars, proteins become amino acids, and fats become fatty acids and glycerol. This digestion starts in the mouth, continues with stomach acids and enzymes, and is completed in the small intestine where most absorption happens. After digestion, these small molecules can be absorbed into the bloodstream for use by cells. Absorption is about taking in nutrients; assimilation is how cells use those nutrients, and metabolism covers all the chemical reactions in the body, including both breakdown and synthesis.