Based on the information shown in the table, match each digestive enzyme to the part of the body where it is found.
| mouth | stomach | small intestine |
|---|---|---|
| | |
Answer (2)
Analyze the pH levels of the mouth, stomach, and small intestine.
Match pancreatic lipase (pH 8.0) to the small intestine.
Match pepsin (pH 1.5 to 1.6) to the stomach.
The final answer is: pepsin in the stomach and pancreatic lipase in the small intestine.
Explanation
Problem Analysis Let's analyze the problem. We have two digestive enzymes, pancreatic lipase and pepsin, with given pH levels. We need to match each enzyme to its location in the body (mouth, stomach, or small intestine) based on the pH levels of these locations.
pH Levels of Body Parts The typical pH of the mouth is around 6.5 to 7.5, which is neutral to slightly alkaline. The typical pH of the stomach is around 1.5 to 3.5, which is highly acidic. The typical pH of the small intestine is around 6 to 7, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
Matching Pancreatic Lipase Pancreatic lipase has a pH of 8.0. Comparing this to the pH levels of the mouth, stomach, and small intestine, we can see that the pH of 8.0 is closest to the pH of the small intestine. Therefore, pancreatic lipase is most likely found in the small intestine.
Matching Pepsin Pepsin has a pH between 1.5 and 1.6. Comparing this to the pH levels of the mouth, stomach, and small intestine, we can see that the pH of 1.5 to 1.6 is closest to the pH of the stomach. Therefore, pepsin is most likely found in the stomach.
Final Answer Based on the pH levels, we can fill in the table as follows:
mouth
stomach
small intestine
pepsin
pancreatic lipase
So, pepsin is found in the stomach, and pancreatic lipase is found in the small intestine.
Examples
Understanding enzyme function based on pH is crucial in medicine and biology. For example, in drug development, knowing the pH at which an enzyme is most active helps in designing drugs that target specific enzymes in the body. Similarly, in understanding digestive disorders, knowing the pH requirements of digestive enzymes helps in diagnosing and treating conditions like acid reflux or pancreatic insufficiency. This knowledge ensures that medications and treatments are effective in the specific body environment where the enzyme functions.
Amylase is found in the mouth, pepsin is located in the stomach, and pancreatic lipase is present in the small intestine. Each of these enzymes functions optimally at specific pH levels suited to their respective locations. Understanding where these enzymes work helps explain how our digestive system breaks down food efficiently.
;
