Question Detail
Question
HCl (hydrochloric acid) in the stomach serves which two functions?
Correct Answer
Option B is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach serves two primary functions: it kills most ingested bacteria (providing protection against pathogens) and activates pepsinogen into pepsin, which begins protein digestion.
Hint
This acid both sterilizes food and activates a protein-digesting enzyme.