Answer :
The function of bicarbonate ions in pancreatic juice is primarily related to (e) Digestion.
Pancreatic juice is a crucial component of the digestive system, produced by the pancreas and secreted into the small intestine. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the role of bicarbonate ions:
Neutralization of Stomach Acid: After food is processed in the stomach, it becomes a semi-liquid substance called chyme. This chyme is highly acidic due to the presence of gastric acid. As it enters the small intestine, it mixes with pancreatic juice.
Bicarbonate Ions Role: Bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻), present in pancreatic juice, play a vital role in neutralizing this acidic chyme. By doing so, they increase the pH of the contents in the small intestine from acidic to more neutral or slightly alkaline conditions.
Optimal Environment for Enzyme Activity: Many enzymes produced by the pancreas, such as trypsin and lipase, function best at this higher pH level. The neutralization of the stomach acid by bicarbonate ions ensures that the enzymes can effectively aid in the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
Protection of Intestinal Lining: The neutralization also serves to protect the lining of the small intestine from the corrosive nature of the stomach acids.
In summary, bicarbonate ions in pancreatic juice are essential for creating the ideal conditions for digestive enzyme activity and protecting the intestines, making the correct choice (e) Digestion.