Question

Compare the roles of a human liver and a human pancreas in the digestion process.(1 point) Responses Both assist with the digestion of proteins. Both assist with the digestion of proteins. Both assist with the digestion of carbohydrates. Both assist with the digestion of carbohydrates. Both assist with the absorption of nutrients. Both assist with the absorption of nutrients. Both assist with the breakdown of fats.

Answer 1

The roles of the human liver and pancreas in the digestion process are distinct but complementary.

- **Liver**: The liver produces bile, which is essential for the emulsification and digestion of fats. It also processes nutrients absorbed from the digestive tract and plays a crucial role in metabolizing proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

- **Pancreas**: The pancreas produces digestive enzymes (such as amylase, lipase, and proteases) that aid in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine. It also produces bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid.

In summary:
- The liver primarily assists with the breakdown of fats and the processing of absorbed nutrients.
- The pancreas directly contributes to the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats through its enzymes.

Therefore, the most appropriate comparison focusing on their roles is that both assist with the breakdown of fats, but they do so in different ways and also have other functions in nutrient metabolism and digestion.