Optimum pH for the action of salivary amylase is

Options

A. 2
B. 8.4
C. 6.8
D. 1

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Salivary Amylase**: Salivary amylase is an enzyme found in saliva that helps in the digestion of carbohydrates, specifically starches, into simpler sugars.

2. **Importance of pH**: Enzymes, including salivary amylase, have an optimum pH at which they function most effectively. Deviations from this pH can lead to decreased enzyme activity.

3. **Identifying the Optimum pH**: The question asks for the optimum pH for the action of salivary amylase. The options provided are:
- a) 2
- b) 8.4
- c) 6.8
- d) 1

4. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- pH 2: This is very acidic and not suitable for salivary amylase activity.
- pH 8.4: This is slightly alkaline, which is also not ideal for salivary amylase.
- pH 6.8: This is close to neutral and is known to be the optimum pH for salivary amylase.
- pH 1: This is extremely acidic and unsuitable for enzyme activity.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the optimum pH for the action of salivary amylase is 6.8. This is the pH at which the enzyme functions best, facilitating effective carbohydrate digestion.

**Final Answer**: The optimum pH for the action of salivary amylase is **6.8**.

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