Final answer:
The enzyme maltase breaks down maltose into two glucose units in the small intestine.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the small intestine, the enzyme responsible for breaking down the disaccharide maltose is maltase. This enzyme hydrolyzes maltose into two glucose units, which can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. Enzymes like amylase continue the breakdown of starch and glycogen into maltose before maltase converts it into glucose.
Meanwhile, other disaccharides such as sucrose and lactose are broken down by sucrase and lactase, respectively. It is important to know that dextrinase aids in breaking down dextrins into simpler carbohydrates but not specifically maltose.