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 pancreas releases sodium bicarbonate into the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. The main function of sodium bicarbonate is to neutralize the acidity of chyme, the semi-digested food that comes from the stomach. By doing so, sodium bicarbonate creates a more alkaline environment that is suitable for the action of pancreatic enzymes. Sodium bicarbonate does not affect peristalsis, the rhythmic contraction of the intestinal muscles, nor does it stimulate the pyloric sphincter, the valve that controls the passage of food from the stomach to the duodenum. Sodium bicarbonate is not a protease, an enzyme that digests proteins, nor does it digest carbohydrates.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is D.