Why is digestion of food a chemical change, whereas chewing food is mainly a physical change?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: During digestion, complex food changes into new, simpler substances, whereas chewing mainly changes its size and shape.
During digestion, enzymes convert complex food substances such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into simpler new substances. The formation of new substances is the characteristic of a chemical change. In contrast, chewing only breaks food into smaller pieces, changing mainly its size and shape without forming a new substance. Therefore, option B is incorrect.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
During digestion, complex food changes into new, simpler substances, whereas chewing mainly changes its size and shape.
Why is this the correct answer?
During digestion, enzymes convert complex food substances such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into simpler new substances. The formation of new substances is the characteristic of a chemical change. In contrast, chewing only breaks food into smaller pieces, changing mainly its size and shape without forming a new substance. Therefore, option B is incorrect.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
