Autolysis, fermentation, and saccharolysis are examples of which broad category?

• A. Types of decomposition
• B. Metabolic pathways
• C. Enzymatic reactions
• D. Microbial processes

Answer: (A)

These terms describe the breakdown or destruction of larger molecules into simpler ones through enzymatic or microbial action. Autolysis is self-digestion of cells by their own enzymes after cell death, which is a form of decomposition. Fermentation involves the breakdown of carbohydrates by microbes and enzymes, producing energy and byproducts, while saccharolysis specifically refers to the cleavage of sugars. Because all three center on breaking down substances, they fit best under a broad category of types of decomposition. While metabolic pathways describe a series of steps in metabolism, and enzymatic reactions are individual chemical changes, and microbial processes is a broader umbrella, the shared theme is decomposition through breakdown of materials.