Question

Which sentence best summarizes the author's point of view about Colt's Inferno sauce?

1) The sauce is superior to others because it can be used on many different foods.
2) The sauce is so overwhelmingly hot that it is difficult to enjoy the flavor.
3) The sauce is hot and tasty but should be used with caution and restraint.

Answer 1

Capsaicin in peppers creates a "hot" sensation by binding to heat receptors on the tongue, which tricks the brain into feeling a burning sensation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The sensation of tasting something "hot" when eating spicy foods like peppers containing capsaicin is not because capsaicin is corrosive or releases large quantities of heat upon ingestion. Instead, capsaicin binds to receptors on the tongue that typically respond to heat, thereby tricking the brain into sensing a hot or burning feeling even though no actual heat is present.

This chemical interaction is what leads to the characteristic and intense spiciness experienced when eating foods containing capsaicin.