The process involved in the decomposition of sugar by an enzyme is called

Step 1: Analyze the question We need the name of the process in which an enzyme breaks down sugar.

Step 2: Explain the concept Fermentation is the enzymatic breakdown of sugars into simpler compounds, usually ethanol and carbon dioxide. The enzyme zymase, found in yeast, catalyzes it:

C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2C₂H₅OH + 2CO₂

(Before this, the enzyme invertase converts sucrose into glucose and fructose.)

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Dehydration: removal of water from a compound, such as ethanol → ethene with conc. H₂SO₄. It does not involve enzymes.
• B. Esterification: an alcohol reacts with a carboxylic acid to form an ester and water.
• C. Fermentation: the enzyme-catalyzed breakdown of sugar into alcohol and CO₂. This fits.
• D. Polymerization: small monomers join to form large molecules, for example ethene → polythene.
• E. Saponification: alkaline hydrolysis of fats or oils to make soap.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. fermentation.

Exam tip: Whenever you see "enzyme" with "sugar" and "alcohol" or "CO₂", think fermentation. Remember "Yeast + sugar → alcohol + CO₂" and you won't miss it. Also, saponification goes with soap, and esterification goes with sweet-smelling esters.