Say goodbye to distractions and enjoy uninterrupted learning with our new ad-free feature. Dive into our vast collection of educational content without any interruptions.
Say goodbye to distractions and enjoy uninterrupted learning with our new ad-free feature. Dive into our vast collection of educational content without any interruptions.
State three main functions of the stomach in human beings:-
Answer
1. Temporary Storage of Food
After swallowing, food enters the stomach through the lower esophageal sphincter. The stomach's muscular walls contract and mix the food with gastric juices, creating a semi-liquid mixture called chyme. This chyme is gradually released into the small intestine for further digestion and absorption.
2. Secretes Digestive Enzymes
The stomach releases digestive enzymes, such as pepsinogen, which is converted to pepsin in the presence of hydrochloric acid (HCl). Pepsin is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in breaking down proteins into smaller peptides.
3. Secretes Mucus - Gastric Juice
The stomach lining contains specialized cells that secrete mucus, which forms a protective layer over the stomach's inner surface. This mucus acts as a barrier, preventing the stomach's digestive juices, including hydrochloric acid, from damaging the stomach's delicate tissues. Further, the gastric juice, composed of mucus, enzymes, and hydrochloric acid, collectively aids in the digestion of food and the protection of the stomach lining.
4. Secretes HCl - Endocrine Function (Gastrin Hormone)
The stomach releases hydrochloric acid (HCl) as part of its gastric juice. HCl serves multiple purposes, including creating an acidic environment that facilitates the activation of pepsinogen to pepsin. Additionally, the presence of food in the stomach triggers the release of the hormone gastrin from the stomach lining. Gastrin, in turn, stimulates the secretion of gastric juices, including HCl, promoting digestion.
Related Questions
Related Topics