Question

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

Answer 1

The gastric juice contains hydrochloric acid, 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.