Final answer:
Mastication and enzyme secretion characterize the functioning of the mouth in the digestive process.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functioning of the mouth in the digestive process is characterized by mastication and enzyme secretion.
Mastication, or chewing, is a mechanical action performed by the teeth and jaw that breaks down food into smaller pieces, increasing its surface area for digestive enzymes to act upon. Enzyme secretion, particularly by the salivary glands, involves the production and release of enzymes such as amylase that initiate chemical digestion by breaking down carbohydrates in the food.