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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme is activated by gastric juice in the stomach?
A
Trypsin
B
Pepsin
C
Lipase
D
Amylase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of gastric juice in the stomach. Gastric juice is a mixture of hydrochloric acid (HCl), pepsinogen (inactive form of pepsin), and mucus. It creates an acidic environment (pH ~1.5-3.5) necessary for enzyme activation.
Step 2: Recall that pepsinogen is secreted by the stomach lining and is converted into its active form, pepsin, in the presence of hydrochloric acid. Pepsin is responsible for breaking down proteins into smaller peptides.
Step 3: Review the functions of the other enzymes listed: Trypsin is activated in the small intestine and works in a basic environment, lipase breaks down fats and is active in the small intestine, and amylase breaks down carbohydrates and is active in the mouth and small intestine.
Step 4: Match the enzyme to the environment. Pepsin is the only enzyme listed that is activated by gastric juice in the stomach due to its acidic pH requirement.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is pepsin, as it is specifically activated by gastric juice and functions in the stomach to digest proteins.