A(n) _______ is a substance that helps in the chemical digestion of food.
• epiglottis
• enzyme
• gallbladder
• peristalsis
The correct answer is enzyme.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the roles of the given options in the digestive process:
1. Epiglottis:
The epiglottis is a flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue that helps prevent food from entering the trachea (windpipe) during swallowing. It does not participate in the chemical digestion of food.
2. Enzyme:
Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts in chemical reactions, including the breaking down of larger molecules into smaller ones. In the context of digestion, enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down complex food molecules into smaller, simpler components that can be absorbed by the body. Therefore, enzymes help in the chemical digestion of food.
3. Gallbladder:
The gallbladder is an organ that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Bile helps in the breakdown and digestion of fats. While the gallbladder plays a role in digestion, it does so through the storage and release of bile, rather than directly participating in the chemical digestion of food.
4. Peristalsis:
Peristalsis is a series of wave-like muscular contractions that move food along the digestive tract. It aids in the mechanical digestion and propulsion of food but does not directly participate in the chemical breakdown of food.
Based on the information provided, it is clear that the correct answer is "enzyme" since it specifically refers to a substance that helps in the chemical digestion of food.