The difference between mechanical digestion and chemical digestion lies in the processes involved in breaking down food into smaller, absorbable units. Mechanical digestion involves the physical breakdown of food into smaller pieces. This process begins in the mouth with chewing and continues in the stomach with churning and segmentation in the small intestine. Peristalsis, which refers to involuntary contractions and relaxations of the muscles in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, also contributes to mechanical digestion. Chemical digestion, on the other hand, uses enzymes and acid to break down food. It starts in the mouth with the release of salivary amylase and continues in the stomach and small intestine with the help of various enzymes and acids. The main goal of chemical digestion is to further degrade the molecular structure of the ingested food to make it easier for the body to absorb nutrients, including fats, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water. In summary: Mechanical digestion involves physically breaking down food into smaller pieces.
Chemical digestion involves using enzymes and acid to break down food.
Mechanical digestion begins in the mouth and continues in the stomach and small intestine.
Chemical digestion starts in the mouth and proceeds in the stomach and small intestine. Both mechanical and chemical digestion are essential for effective digestion and nutrient absorption. Defects in either process can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health issues.