ATI TEAS Science Questions Related

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What is the purpose of sodium bicarbonate when released into the lumen of the small intestine?

  • A. It works to chemically digest fats in the chyme.
  • B. It decreases the pH of the chyme to prevent harm to the intestine.
  • C. It works to chemically digest proteins in the chyme.
  • D. It increases the pH of the chyme to prevent harm to the intestine.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Sodium bicarbonate, when released into the lumen of the small intestine, functions to increase the pH of the acidic chyme coming from the stomach. This increase in pH helps neutralize the acidity of the chyme, creating a more optimal environment for the digestive enzymes in the small intestine to function properly. Maintaining a slightly basic pH in the small intestine is crucial for overall digestion and absorption of nutrients. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Sodium bicarbonate does not chemically digest fats or proteins in the chyme, and it does not decrease the pH of the chyme as it actually increases the pH to prevent harm to the intestine.