Which of the following indicates the function of sodium bicarbonate released by the pancreas?
A.
Sodium bicarbonate inhibits peristalsis.
B.
Sodium bicarbonate stimulates the pyloric sphincter.
C.
Sodium bicarbonate is a protease that digests carbohydrates.
D.
Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the acidity of chyme.
The function of sodium bicarbonate released by the pancreas is:
D. Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the acidity of chyme.
Sodium bicarbonate helps to neutralize the acidic chyme coming from the stomach, creating a more alkaline environment in the small intestine that is conducive for the action of digestive enzymes.