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Multiple Choice
Did the enzymes from Claire's small intestine break down the protein at a low pH, and why?
A
No, because small intestinal enzymes function optimally at a neutral to slightly basic pH.
B
Yes, because all digestive enzymes are most active at low pH.
C
No, because proteins are not digested in the small intestine.
D
Yes, because the small intestine is highly acidic.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of enzymes in protein digestion. Proteins are broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids by enzymes such as pepsin in the stomach and proteases in the small intestine. Each enzyme has an optimal pH range for activity.
Step 2: Recall the pH environment of the small intestine. The small intestine has a neutral to slightly basic pH (approximately 7.4 to 8.0), which is maintained by bicarbonate secreted by the pancreas to neutralize stomach acid.
Step 3: Identify the enzymes active in the small intestine. Enzymes like trypsin and chymotrypsin, secreted by the pancreas, are responsible for protein digestion in the small intestine. These enzymes function optimally at the neutral to slightly basic pH of the small intestine.
Step 4: Evaluate the statement 'Did the enzymes from Claire's small intestine break down the protein at a low pH?' Small intestinal enzymes do not function optimally at low pH; they require a neutral to slightly basic environment for activity.
Step 5: Analyze the provided answer choices. Based on the physiological pH of the small intestine and the optimal pH range of its enzymes, the correct answer is: 'No, because small intestinal enzymes function optimally at a neutral to slightly basic pH.'