At body temperature, which of these combinations is most likely to result in the digestion of proteins?
A) water, pepsin
B) HCl, pepsin
C) bile, pepsin
D) sodium bicarbonate, pepsin
E) pepsin, HCl, sodium bicarbonate

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

HCl and pepsin are the stomach's main digestive components for proteins. Pepsin works best at a pH of 1.5-2.0, which is achieved by the production of HCl in the stomach. Water, bile, and sodium bicarbonate do not directly aid in the digestion of proteins.

At Body Temperature, Which of These Combinations Is Most Likely