Question

Define the term digestion?

1) The chemical breakup of complex food molecules into smaller molecules that can be absorbed
2) The process of bringing those smaller molecules inside the body

Answer 1

Digestion is the process of breaking down food into smaller molecules through mechanical and chemical processes. Absorption allows the nutrients to be taken up by the blood and transported to cells in the body.

Step-by-step explanation:

Digestion is the process of breaking down food into nutrients. There are two types of digestion, mechanical and chemical. In mechanical digestion, large chunks of food are broken down into small pieces. Mechanical digestion begins in the mouth and involves physical processes, such as chewing. This process continues in the stomach as the food is mixed with digestive juices. In chemical digestion, large food molecules are broken down into small nutrient molecules.

This is a chemical process which also begins in the mouth as saliva begins to break down food and continues in the stomach as stomach enzymes further digest the food. Absorption is the process that allows substances you eat to be taken up by the blood. After food is broken down into small nutrient molecules, the molecules are absorbed by the blood. After absorption, the nutrient molecules travel in the bloodstream to cells throughout the body. This happens mostly in the small intestine.