Gastrointestinal NCLEX Questions Related

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Which of these ingredients in saliva is responsible for activating salivary amylase?

  • A. mucus
  • B. phosphate ions
  • C. chloride ions
  • D. urea
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: phosphate ions. Phosphate ions present in saliva help activate salivary amylase by providing the necessary environment for the enzyme to function optimally. Salivary amylase works best at a slightly alkaline pH, which is facilitated by the presence of phosphate ions. Mucus (choice A) primarily helps with lubrication and binding of food particles but does not activate enzymes. Chloride ions (choice C) are not directly involved in activating salivary amylase. Urea (choice D) is a waste product and not related to enzyme activation in saliva. In summary, the correct answer is B because phosphate ions create the optimal pH environment for salivary amylase activity, while the other choices are not directly involved in enzyme activation.