If saliva secretion in the mouth decreases, what combined effect will occur on digestion and swallowing?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Initial starch digestion and swallowing will both become difficult
Saliva has two relevant functions in the mouth. Its water and mucus moisten, soften, and lubricate food, helping it form a bolus that can be swallowed. Saliva also contains salivary amylase, which begins the digestion of starch into simpler sugars. A reduction in secretion therefore makes swallowing harder and reduces initial starch digestion. Thus option A is correct; the other options misidentify saliva's role or describe impossible effects.
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What is the correct answer to this question?
Initial starch digestion and swallowing will both become difficult
Why is this the correct answer?
Saliva has two relevant functions in the mouth. Its water and mucus moisten, soften, and lubricate food, helping it form a bolus that can be swallowed. Saliva also contains salivary amylase, which begins the digestion of starch into simpler sugars. A reduction in secretion therefore makes swallowing harder and reduces initial starch digestion. Thus option A is correct; the other options misidentify saliva's role or describe impossible effects.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: World of Living. Topic: Life Processes.
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