The name of the process that breaks down food into smaller components is called digestion. Digestion occurs in both the mechanical and chemical forms, starting in the mouth, where food is mechanically broken down by chewing and mixed with saliva. Chemical digestion continues in the stomach and small intestine, where enzymes break down macromolecules into absorbable nutrients. This process is critical for providing the energy and nutrients necessary for maintaining bodily functions and supporting growth and development.