2006-10-12 18:33:24 · 4 answers · asked by newyorktocountry 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
It contains a lot of different things. More than what I would ever have imagined. It goes like this;
Saliva is produced in and secreted from salivary glands. The basic secretory units of salivary glands are clusters of cells called an acini. These cells secrete a fluid that contains water, electrolytes, mucus and enzymes, all of which flow out of the acinus into collecting ducts.
Within the ducts, the composition of the secretion is altered. Much of the sodium is actively reabsorbed, potassium is secreted, and large quantities of bicarbonate ion are secreted. Bicarbonate secretion is of tremendous importance to ruminants because it, along with phosphate, provides a critical buffer that neutralizes the massive quantities of acid produced in the forestomachs. Small collecting ducts within salivary glands lead into larger ducts, eventually forming a single large duct that empties into the oral cavity.
2006-10-12 18:47:18 · answer #1 · answered by Mary D 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
saliva is 98% water, but it contains many important substances, including electrolytes, mucus, antibacterial compounds and various enzymes. The digestive functions of saliva include moistening food, and helping to create a food bolus, so it can be swallowed easily. The saliva only digests starch partially thats why when you slowly chew your bread or rice, the food becomes sticky and sweeter. Hope that helps!
2006-10-13 02:16:33 · answer #2 · answered by nightflowerphil 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i think it is an enzyme
2006-10-13 01:50:11 · answer #3 · answered by illusion4_84 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
SPIT , sorry I just couldn't resist!
2006-10-13 01:52:39 · answer #4 · answered by Carolyn T 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋