Bicarbonate is released into the duodenum during the process of digestion. why? select one: a. to activate hormonal release of bile b. to digest fats/oils c. to neutralize the acidic chyme d. to lubricate the villi of the small intestine

The correct answer is- C. to neutralize the acidic chyme

Bicarbonate is secreted by pancreas and released into the duodenum ( first part of small intestine) during the process of digestion.

The digestive enzymes that are secreted by the pancreas ( such as protease, amylase, lipase) into the small intestine, require an alkaline pH for their optimum functioning.

Since the chyme ( partly digested food with acidic pH, coming from the stomach) is acidic in nature, thus, the release of bicarbonate and water by the pancreas helps in neutralizing it.

This aids the final process of digestion in small intestine.