Compare the process of digesting food in an amoeba to those in a mouse
The process of digesting food in an amoeba differs significantly from that in a mouse.
Amoeba:
1. Amoeba takes in food particles through a process called phagocytosis where it engulfs the food particles with its cell membrane forming a food vacuole.
2. Once inside the food vacuole, the food particles are broken down using enzymes secreted by the amoeba.
3. The nutrients are then absorbed into the cytoplasm of the cell for energy and growth.
4. The indigestible waste material is expelled from the cell through exocytosis.
Mouse:
1. The mouse ingests food through its mouth where it is chewed into smaller pieces.
2. The food is mixed with saliva which contains enzymes that start the process of breaking down carbohydrates.
3. The food then travels down the esophagus and into the stomach where it is further broken down by stomach acid and enzymes.
4. The partially digested food then moves to the small intestine where it is mixed with bile and pancreatic enzymes to break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
5. The nutrients are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine and into the bloodstream.
6. The remaining indigestible waste material moves to the large intestine where water is absorbed and the waste is eventually expelled through the rectum.
In summary, amoebas digest food intracellularly within the cell, while mammals like mice digest food extracellularly in their digestive system with the help of various organs and enzymes.