NEET · BiologyMedium

During the digestion of fats, bile salts play a crucial role. What is the primary function of bile salts in this process?

  1. A.Hydrolysis of triglycerides into fatty acids
  2. B.Emulsification of fats to increase surface area
  3. C.Activation of pancreatic lipase
  4. D.Absorption of fatty acids into lacteals
Show correct answer & step-by-step solution

Correct answer: BEmulsification of fats to increase surface area

Solution

  1. Fats are hydrophobic and form large globules in the aqueous environment of the intestine.
  2. Bile salts act as detergents to break these large globules into smaller droplets.
  3. This process is known as emulsification.
  4. Emulsification significantly increases the surface area for pancreatic lipase to act.
  5. Hence the answer is (B).

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