Question

What are the two products formed when E. coli β-galactosidase breaks down lactose?

Options

• Lactose and glucose

• Galactose and glucose

• Glucose and fructose

• Galactose and sucrose

Answer 1

β-galactosidase breaks lactose into galactose and glucose. This enzymatic breakdown provides the cell with simple sugars that can be used for energy production through cellular respiration.