Question

Cells lining the stomach release hydrochloric acid (HCl). In general, how does HCl assist in food digestion? How are the cells lining the stomach protected from being auto-digested by HCl?

Answer 1

Answer:

Digestion may be defined as the process of break down of large food particles into smaller particles with the help of digestive enzymes. The digestive aids the absorption of food into the blood stream.

The hydrochloric acid is produced in the stomach. This acidic medium is important for the activation of enzymes. Hydrochloric acid kills the harmful pathogens that enters with the food. The enzyme pepsinogen is converted into pepsin.The cells lining of the stomach is protected by the mucus released in the stomach.The bicarbonate ions, and buffers are also produced by the stomach to protect it from the acid.