The question can be viewed as what type of chemical reaction results in the break down of starch into smaller subunits known as glucose. This process is called hydrolysis. Hydrolysis is a reaction whereby a water molecule is inserted between a disaccharide, causing the glycoside bond that connects the two sugars to break and two monosaccharide molecules to be produced. Starch is a long chain of glucose molecules joined one to the next. Hydrolysis helps to break the chemical bonds that hold the glucose molecules together. Of course, this works because specific enzymes are needed to facilitate this reaction. Starch enzymes are found in both the oral cavity and the small intestine. Once starch is digested, the glucose can be transported via the bloodstream and enter the cells via facilitated diffusion where it can be used for energy.
