Do You Know Food Science?

The food chain starts with producers. Producers are organisms, such as plants and algae, that are capable of producing their own food through photosynthesis. They convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen. Producers are at the base of the food chain as they provide energy and nutrients to other organisms. Consumers, decomposers, and scavengers rely on producers for their energy needs, making them an essential starting point for the food chain.

Food Chemistry is the correct answer because it involves the study of chemical processes and interactions of all biological and non-biological components of foods. This field focuses on understanding the chemical composition and properties of food, as well as the changes that occur during processing, storage, and preparation. Food Chemistry plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety, quality, and nutrition.

Food manipulation is not a discipline in food science. Food engineering focuses on the design and development of food processes and equipment. Food packing involves the packaging and preservation of food products. Food preservation deals with methods to prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of food. However, food manipulation is not a recognized discipline in food science.

Lipase is a digestive enzyme that helps break down fats into smaller molecules, such as fatty acids and glycerol, which can be easily absorbed by the body. It is produced primarily in the pancreas and released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats. Lipase plays a crucial role in the overall digestion and absorption of fats in the body.

Kwashiorkor is a disease that is caused by a deficiency of protein. Protein is essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. When there is a lack of protein in the diet, it can lead to symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, and stunted growth, which are characteristic of Kwashiorkor. Deficiencies in vitamins and fats can also have negative effects on health, but they are not the direct cause of Kwashiorkor.

Respiration is the process by which cells convert food into energy. It occurs in the mitochondria of cells and involves the breakdown of glucose molecules to release energy in the form of ATP. This energy is then used by cells for various metabolic activities. Therefore, it is correct to say that respiration exclusively releases energy stored in the food we eat.

Detritus refers to the debris that is formed as a result of the decomposition or rotting of organic matter. It includes fragments, particles, or remains of dead plants, animals, or other organisms. Therefore, the correct answer is "Debris formed by rotting matter".

Decomposers play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter and returning essential nutrients back into the soil. This process, known as nutrient recycling, allows the nutrients to be reused by plants and other organisms. Therefore, decomposers help in recycling nutrients, making option (a) "Recycle Nutrient" the correct answer.

Vitamins are needed in very small amounts by the body. They are organic compounds that are essential for normal growth and development. While proteins and oil are also necessary for the body, they are required in larger quantities compared to vitamins. Vitamins play a crucial role in various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune system function, and cell growth. They are typically obtained through a balanced diet, as the body is unable to produce enough of them on its own.

The most important group of decomposers is both bacteria and fungi. Bacteria and fungi play crucial roles in breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients in the environment. Bacteria decompose organic matter by secreting enzymes that break down complex molecules, while fungi decompose organic matter through their hyphae, which penetrate and break down the organic material. Both bacteria and fungi are essential for the decomposition process, as they help convert dead organisms and organic waste into simpler compounds that can be reused by other organisms.