What process activates dextrins to break down molecules?

The correct choice is hydrolysis, as this process involves the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones through the addition of water. In the case of dextrins, which are intermediate products formed during the breakdown of starch, hydrolysis plays a crucial role. It uses specific enzymes to cleave the glycosidic bonds connecting sugar units, resulting in the production of simpler sugars like glucose.

Hydrolysis is particularly important for the digestion of carbohydrates; as dextrins undergo hydrolysis, they are broken down further into glucose, which the body can readily utilize for energy. This enzymatic process is essential for nutrient absorption and provides the necessary components that the body requires for various metabolic functions.

Understanding hydrolysis is key in contexts related to nutrition and metabolism, as it demonstrates how the body transforms complex carbohydrates into usable forms. In sciences such as biochemistry and nutrition, recognizing the mechanisms of molecular breakdown is critical for comprehending how energy is derived from food sources.