Question

What substances are contained in gastric juice? What are their functions?

Answer 1

Gastric juice contains hydrochloric acid, the pepsin enzyme, and mucus. Their functions are as follows:

1. Hydrochloric acid: It creates an acidic environment for the action of pepsin, as well as kills the bacteria present in the food.
2. Pepsin: It begins the digestion of proteins into smaller molecules.
3. Mucus: It protects the stomach wall from hydrochloric acid.