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Multiple Choice
Which of the following cells secretes hydrochloric acid in the human stomach?
A
Chief cells
B
Goblet cells
C
Enteroendocrine cells
D
Parietal cells
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach: It helps break down food, activates digestive enzymes like pepsin, and provides an acidic environment to kill harmful microorganisms.
Review the roles of different stomach cells: Chief cells secrete pepsinogen (inactive form of pepsin), Goblet cells produce mucus to protect the stomach lining, and Enteroendocrine cells release hormones to regulate digestion.
Learn about Parietal cells: These specialized cells are located in the gastric glands of the stomach lining and are responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid (HCl).
Understand the mechanism of HCl secretion: Parietal cells use proton pumps to actively transport hydrogen ions (H⁺) into the stomach lumen, combining them with chloride ions (Cl⁻) to form HCl.
Connect the information: Based on the roles of the cells, Parietal cells are the correct answer because they are the ones that secrete hydrochloric acid in the human stomach.