Question

The enzyme pepsin hydrolyses
A. protein to amino acid
B. fats to fatty acid
C. glucose to ethyl alcohol
D. polysaccharides

Answer 1

We know that enzymes are biocatalysts which help in the various reactions of living beings. All the enzymes are globular proteins and they are very specific for a certain chemical reaction and for a particular substance.

Complete step by step answer:
Let’s understand the specific nature of enzymes with the help of an example. Maltase is an enzyme that catalyses the only hydrolysis of maltose into glucose.
Here, we have to identify the correct purpose of enzyme pepsin in our body. Pepsin is the enzyme whose function is to break down proteins to smaller peptides (amino acid). Pepsin is manufactured in the chief cells of the lining of the stomach. It is one of the most important enzymes of the digestive system of humans that helps in protein digestion.
Hence, the correct answer is option A.

Additional Information:
Some other important enzymes of our body are amylase, lipase etc.
The digestion of carbohydrates begins in the mouth with the help of amylase enzyme present in the saliva. This enzyme catalyzes the reactions that help in digestion of polysaccharides to smaller sugars.
Lipase is another important enzyme of our body. It helps in digestion of fats in our body. This enzyme is produced in the pancreas of human beings.

Note:
Proteins are present in foods like meat, egg, fish etc. So, pepsin enzymes break these substances for enzymes. This enzyme is also responsible for killing bacteria in the stomach. Its one function is also to separate vitamin B12 from protein for proper utilization of vitamins.