Question 6
What is the role of saliva in the digestion of food?
The saliva contains an enzyme called salivary amylase that breaks down starch which is a complex molecule to give simple sugar. It also makes passage of food through oesophagus easier.
Key Concepts Covered
This question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Life Processes: Question, Saliva, Digestion, Food, Life Processes, Science. These are fundamental topics in Science that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 10 curriculum.
A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of Science papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This Question
Read the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to Remember
- Read the question carefully and identify all parts before answering.
- Use the terminology specific to this subject and chapter.
- Review the textbook content for this chapter before attempting questions.
- Practice writing concise, well-structured answers within time limits.
Practice more questions from Life Processes — Science, Class 10 CBSE
Chapter 5: Life Processes — Quick Revision Guide
Introduction
Life processes are the basic functions performed by all living organisms to sustain life. This chapter covers nutrition (autotrophic and heterotrophic), respiration, transportation, and excretion in plants and animals.
Key Points at a Glance
- Photosynthesis: 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2 (in chloroplasts using chlorophyll and sunlight)
- Stomata: tiny pores for gas exchange and transpiration; guard cells control opening/closing
- Human digestive system: mouth (salivary amylase) → stomach (HCl, pepsin) → small intestine (bile, trypsin, lipase; absorption by villi) → large intestine → anus
- Aerobic respiration (mitochondria): glucose + O2 → CO2 + H2O + 38 ATP
- Anaerobic: in yeast → ethanol + CO2; in muscles → lactic acid; both yield 2 ATP
- Xylem: transports water upward (dead cells, transpiration pull); Phloem: transports food bidirectionally (living cells, uses ATP)
- Heart: 4 chambers, double circulation (pulmonary + systemic); septum prevents mixing
- Blood: plasma + RBCs (O2 via haemoglobin) + WBCs (immunity) + platelets (clotting)
- Nephron: Bowman's capsule + glomerulus → filtration → reabsorption → urine; dialysis for kidney failure
- Plant excretion: transpiration, leaf fall, stored in vacuoles, resins/gums
Real-World Connections
Photosynthesis is the basis of all food chains; fermentation used in bread and alcohol production; blood donation saves lives; dialysis machines sustain patients with kidney failure.
Quick Self-Test (5 Questions)
- What is the most important concept you learned from this chapter?
- Can you write three key equations/formulae from this chapter from memory?
- Draw a labelled diagram relevant to this chapter without looking at your notes.
- Explain one real-world application of a concept from this chapter.
- What is one common mistake students make in this chapter, and how can you avoid it?
Further Study
- NCERT Textbook Chapter 5
- NCERT Exemplar Problems
- Bright Tutorials Detailed Notes: ch05-life-processes.html
- Bright Tutorials Practice Questions: ch05-life-processes.html
- Previous Year CBSE Board Papers