Question

Which acid helps in the digestion of food without harming the stomach?

• A. $H_{2}S{O}_4$
• B. $HCl$
• C. $C{H}_{3}COOH$
• D. $H_{3}P{O}_4$

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

$HCl$

Hydrochloric acid $\left(HCl\right)$ is released by parietal cells (also known as oxyntic cells) present in the stomach.

The acid helps to sterilize the ingested food by freeing it from microbes and it also creates acidic conditions which are required for the functioning proteolytic enzyme i.e pepsin.

The stomach lining is protected by mucous membrane and hence HCl doesn't harm the stomach.

Hence, the correct answer is the option (B).