What is the primary function of the enzyme alpha-amylase in carbohydrate metabolism?

A To break down glycogen into glucose
B To convert starch into maltose ✓
C To hydrolyze sucrose into glucose and fructose
D To phosphorylate hexoses to form hexose phosphate

Explanation

Alpha-amylase is a salivary enzyme that breaks down starch into maltose, a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules.

Source

Biochemistry textbook by Lehninger
Carbohydrate Metabolism Biochemistry Salivary Digestion Easy MEDICAL Confidence: high