What is the difference between mechanical digestion and chemical digestion in the mouth?

Mechanical digestion and chemical digestion are two processes that occur in the mouth to aid in the breakdown of food. Here is a brief explanation of each:

Mechanical Digestion

• Definition: Mechanical digestion in the mouth involves the physical breakdown of food into smaller pieces.
• Process: This is primarily achieved through the action of chewing (mastication) by the teeth, which grinds and tears the food.
• Purpose: The main goal is to increase the surface area of the food, making it easier for enzymes to act on it during chemical digestion.

Chemical Digestion

• Definition: Chemical digestion involves the breakdown of food into simpler nutrients that can be absorbed by the body, facilitated by enzymes.
• Process: In the mouth, this is primarily done by saliva, which contains the enzyme amylase. Amylase begins the digestion of carbohydrates by breaking down starches into simpler sugars.
• Purpose: The aim is to start the process of converting complex molecules into simpler ones that can be absorbed and utilized by the body.

Final Answer

Mechanical digestion in the mouth involves the physical breakdown of food through chewing, while chemical digestion involves the enzymatic breakdown of food, primarily carbohydrates, by saliva.