Question

which statement best describes the breakdown of food in the digestive system?
carbohydrate digestion starts in the stomach and protein digestion starts in the stomach.
carbohydrate digestion starts in the mouth and protein digestion starts in the stomach.
carbohydrate digestion starts in the esophagus and protein digestion starts in the small intestine.
carbohydrate digestion starts in the small intestine and protein digestion starts in the esophagus.

Explanation:

• Carbohydrate digestion: Begins in the mouth. Saliva contains amylase which starts breaking down carbohydrates (e.g., starches).
• Protein digestion: Starts in the stomach. Gastric juices (containing pepsin) begin the breakdown of proteins.
• Esophagus: Just a passageway for food, no digestion occurs here.
• Small intestine: Further digestion (and absorption) of both carbohydrates and proteins occurs here, but it is not the starting point for either.

Answer:

Carbohydrate digestion starts in the mouth and protein digestion starts in the stomach.