Multiple Choice
The liver and pancreas add their secretions to the partially digested food produced in the stomach, in the __________ of the small intestine.
39. Digestive System
Digestion
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Pepsin is an enzyme produced in the stomach that attacks proteins to break them down into smaller peptide molecules. Which of the following statements about this enzyme is true?
A
The activity of pepsin will speed up in the small intestine because the pH becomes less acidic.
B
Pepsin will continue to work at the same rate as it moves through the intestines until all the protein is broken down.
C
Salivary amylase activates pepsin, converting it to a functioning form in the stomach.
D
Pepsin will cease to function in the small intestine as basic secretions from the pancreas neutralize the pH.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of pepsin: Pepsin is a protease enzyme that breaks down proteins into peptides. It is active in the acidic environment of the stomach.
Consider the pH environment: Pepsin functions optimally at a low pH, typically around 1.5 to 2.5, which is the pH of the stomach. The small intestine has a higher pH due to bicarbonate secretions from the pancreas.
Evaluate enzyme activity in different pH levels: Enzymes have specific pH ranges where they are active. Pepsin's activity decreases as the pH becomes less acidic, such as in the small intestine.
Analyze the statement about salivary amylase: Salivary amylase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates, not proteins, and does not activate pepsin.
Conclude based on enzyme specificity: Pepsin will cease to function in the small intestine because the environment becomes less acidic, which is not conducive to its activity.
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