Question

Which of the following is a function of the hydrochloric acid produced in the stomach during protein digestion?

a. It triggers the secretion of the hormone gastrin.
b. It denatures proteins and converts pepsinogen to pepsin.
c. It initiates the mechanical digestion of food.
d. It converts pancreatic proenzymes to pancreatic proteases.

Answer 1

The hydrochloric acid produced in the stomach during protein digestion denatures proteins and converts pepsinogen to pepsin.

Step-by-step explanation:

The hydrochloric acid (HCl) produced in the stomach during protein digestion serves several functions. First, it denatures proteins found in food, unfolding them and exposing their chains to more efficient enzyme action. Next, it converts the inactive enzyme pepsinogen to its active form, pepsin, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of peptide linkages within protein molecules. This process breaks down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. Therefore, the correct option is b. It denatures proteins and converts pepsinogen to pepsin.