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Lesson 4 Vocab
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Amylase | An enzyme contained in saliva; it helps break down starch into simple sugars. |
| Chemical Digestion | The digestion of food by enzymes and other chemicals produced by the body. |
| Enzyme | A special protein produced by the body; usually helps digest food. |
| Mechanical Digestion | The grinding, mixing, and tearing of food; begins in the mouth. |
| Saliva | Produced by three pairs of glands in the mouth; moistens food when it enters the mouth. |
| Sphincter | A ring of muscle; acts like doorways between the organs of the digestive system. |
| Trachea | The tube to the lungs for air; also known as the windpipe. |
| Bolus | A moist, soggy ball of food; what remains after chewing; it triggers a swallowing reflex. |
| Epiglottis | A flap of muscle that closes over the windpipe when swallowing to prevent food from going to the lungs. |