Which of the following indicates the function of sodium bicarbonate secreted by the pancreas?
A. Sodium bicarbonate is a protease that digests carbohydrates.
B. Sodium bicarbonate stimulates the pyloric sphincter.
C. Sodium bicarbonate inhibits peristalsis.
D. Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the acidity of chyme.
Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the acidity of chyme.
The pancreas secretes large amounts of sodium bicarbonate, which protects the duodenum by neutralizing the acid that comes from the stomach.
This compound helps neutralize stomach acid generated during the digestive process.
Choice A is incorrect because sodium bicarbonate is not a protease that digests carbohydrates.
Proteases are enzymes that break down proteins, while sodium bicarbonate is a chemical compound that helps neutralize stomach acid.
Choice B is incorrect because sodium bicarbonate does not stimulate the pyloric sphincter.
The pyloric sphincter is a ring of smooth muscle that separates the stomach from the duodenum and regulates the passage of partially digested food (chyme) into the small intestine.
Choice C is incorrect because sodium bicarbonate does not inhibit peristalsis.
Peristalsis is a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is D.