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

Question

Responses

Both assist with the digestion of proteins.
Both assist with the digestion of proteins.

Both assist with the breakdown of fats.
Both assist with the breakdown of fats.

Both assist with the absorption of nutrients.
Both assist with the absorption of nutrients.

Both assist with the digestion of carbohydrates.

Answer 1

The human liver and pancreas both play essential roles in the digestion process, but they have distinct functions:

• The liver primarily produces bile, which is important for the emulsification and digestion of fats. It also processes nutrients absorbed from the digestive tract.

• The pancreas produces digestive enzymes (like amylase, lipase, and proteases) that assist in breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, respectively, in the small intestine.

Therefore, while both organs support the digestion process, their specific roles differ. The liver is more involved in fat digestion and nutrient processing, while the pancreas is crucial for the enzymatic breakdown of a wide range of macronutrients.