# Explain what happens to a fat molecule during digestion, including where digestion occurs and how the products are absorbed into the body.

> AQA A-Level Biology (7402) — 3.3.3 Digestion and Absorption · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Bile emulsifies fat (breaks fat into smaller droplets)
2. Lipase breaks down / digests fat in the small intestine
3. Fat is broken down into fatty acids and glycerol
4. Fatty acids and glycerol are absorbed into the lacteals (lymphatic system) / through the villi
5. Emulsification increases the surface area (of fat) so lipase can act more efficiently / faster

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Biology (7402)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" 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/explain-what-happens-to-a-fat-21aeabf0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.