Question

Which acid is produced in our stomach ?

• A. HBr
• B. HCl
• C. H$_2$SO$_4$
• D. HNO$_3$

Hint:

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach aids digestion by breaking down food and activating enzymes, as well as providing a defense against pathogens.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Recall the digestive process in the stomach.
The stomach plays a crucial role in digestion, primarily through the action of gastric juice. Gastric juice contains several components, including enzymes and acid. Step 2: Identify the specific acid produced in the stomach.
The parietal cells (also called oxyntic cells) in the lining of the stomach are responsible for producing hydrochloric acid (HCl). This acid creates a highly acidic environment (pH 1.5-3.5) necessary for the activation of digestive enzymes like pepsin and for killing harmful bacteria ingested with food. Step 3: Evaluate the given options.

(1) HBr (Hydrobromic acid): Not produced in the stomach.
(2) HCl (Hydrochloric acid): This is the strong acid produced in the stomach.
(3) H$_2$SO$_4$ (Sulfuric acid): Not produced in the stomach; it's a strong industrial acid.
(4) HNO$_3$ (Nitric acid): Not produced in the stomach; it's a strong industrial acid. Step 4: Conclude the correct acid.
Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is the acid produced in our stomach. (2) HCl