Which process describes the breakdown of starch into sugars?

The breakdown of starch into sugars is best described by hydrolysis. Hydrolysis is a chemical process in which a compound reacts with water, leading to the decomposition or breakdown of that compound. In the case of starch, which is a polysaccharide made up of numerous glucose molecules linked together, the addition of water catalyzes the reaction that breaks these glycosidic bonds that hold the glucose units together. This reaction results in the production of simpler sugars, primarily glucose.

When starch undergoes hydrolysis, enzymes such as amylase play a crucial role in the process, as they facilitate the breakdown of starch into maltose and eventually into glucose. This is a significant step in digestion, allowing the body to utilize carbohydrates for energy.

Understanding hydrolysis is essential in various contexts, including food science, where the conversion of starches to sugars is critical in processes like brewing, baking, and cooking. This knowledge is foundational to understanding carbohydrate metabolism and the nutritional implications of different types of carbohydrates in our diets.