# Describe the role of physical digestion in the mouth, including the functions of different types of teeth and how physical digestion assists chemical digestion.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 7.3 Mechanical digestion · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Physical digestion breaks food into smaller pieces (without chemical change)
2. Incisors (and/or canines) cut or bite food
3. Molars (and/or premolars) chew and grind food
4. Physical digestion increases the surface area of food for enzyme action in chemical digestion

## Key terms

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

## 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)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-role-of-physical-digestion-2353ce22) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.