Which of the following indicates the function of sodium bicarbonate released by the pancreas?
A.
Sodium bicarbonate inhibits peristalsis
B.
Sodium bicarbonate is a protease that digests carbohydrates
C.
Sodium bicarbonate stimulates the pyloric sphincter
D.
Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the acidity of chyme
The correct answer is:
D. Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the acidity of chyme.
Sodium bicarbonate, released by the pancreas, neutralizes the acidic chyme that enters the small intestine from the stomach, creating a more favorable pH for the action of digestive enzymes.