Question

Compare the roles of a human liver and a human pancreas in the digestion process.(1 point)
Responses

Both assist with the breakdown of fats.
Both assist with the breakdown of fats. - no response given

Both assist with the digestion of carbohydrates.
Both assist with the digestion of carbohydrates. - no response given

Both assist with the absorption of nutrients.
Both assist with the absorption of nutrients. - no response given

Both assist with the digestion of proteins.

Answer 1

The human liver and pancreas play distinct but complementary roles in the digestion process:

1. **Liver**: The liver produces bile, which is essential for the emulsification and digestion of fats in the small intestine. It also plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins, processing nutrients absorbed from the digestive tract.

2. **Pancreas**: The pancreas produces digestive enzymes (such as amylase, lipase, and proteases) that are released into the small intestine to help break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into their smaller components, enabling absorption.

In summary, while both assist in the digestion process, the liver primarily focuses on fat digestion through bile production, and the pancreas focuses on breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins with enzymes.

If you were looking for a correct comparison based on your response options, the most accurate option is:

"Both assist with the digestion of proteins." (but remember, they assist in different ways rather than performing the same function).