# Describe the role of amylase and maltase in the chemical digestion of starch.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 7.4 Chemical digestion · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Amylase breaks down starch into maltose
2. Amylase is found in saliva (in the mouth) and in pancreatic juice (in the small intestine / duodenum)
3. Maltase breaks down maltose into glucose
4. Maltase is a membrane-bound enzyme found in the epithelial cells / lining of the small intestine

## Key terms

- [amylase](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/amylase)
- [maltase](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/maltase)
- [chemical digestion](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/chemical-digestion)
- [starch](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/starch)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-role-of-amylase-and-ba4730fd) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.