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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme catalyzes the breakdown of starch into sugars?
A
Invertase
B
Cellulase
C
Lactase
D
Amylase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the substrate involved in the reaction. In this case, the substrate is starch, a polysaccharide composed of glucose units.
Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the conversion of substrates into products.
Recognize the specific enzyme that acts on starch. Amylase is the enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose.
Differentiate between the enzymes listed in the options. Invertase catalyzes the breakdown of sucrose, cellulase breaks down cellulose, and lactase breaks down lactose.
Conclude that amylase is the correct enzyme for the breakdown of starch into sugars, as it specifically targets the glycosidic bonds in starch molecules.