Question

If hydrochloric acid is so strong that it can break complex food molecules, why does it not affect the walls of stomach?

• A. Pepsin is basic in nature which neutralizes HCl and prevents damage to stomach.
• B. Stomach is internally protected by mucous membrane which prevents the action of HCl.
• C. Salivary amylase secreted in the mouth still remains in the bolus which prevents damage to the stomach.
• D. Pancreas release certain enzymes which mix with the food and prevents the stomach walls.

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Stomach is internally protected by mucous membrane which prevents the action of HCl.

In our stomach, mucus is a digestive juice secreted along with other gastric juices. The mucus protects the walls of the stomach from the corrosive effects of HCl.