Multiple choice

What is the chief function of HCl?

  1. To dissolve enzyme secreted in the stomach

  2. To maintain a low pH to prevent growth of microorganisms

  3. To maintain low pH to facilitate absorption

  4. To maintain low pH to activate pepsinogen to form pepsin

  5. To maintain low pH to inhibit conversion of pepsinogen to pepsin
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

HCl's chief function is maintaining stomach acidity, which converts inactive pepsinogen into active pepsin. Pepsin is the primary enzyme that begins protein digestion in the stomach. While HCl also inhibits microbial growth (option B) and aids mineral absorption, activating pepsinogen is its main digestive role.

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