Which organ neutralises chyme by releasing bicarbonate into the small intestine?

• A. Liver
• B. Pancreas
• C. Stomach
• D. Small intestine

Answer: (B)

Neutralising the acidic chyme as it enters the small intestine is essential for protecting the lining and creating the right environment for digestion. The pancreas does this by releasing bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juice into the duodenum. The alkaline bicarbonate neutralises the acid from the stomach, raising the pH so digestive enzymes can function effectively. This bicarbonate release is triggered when the duodenum detects acidity, via hormonal signals like secretin. The liver doesn’t provide bicarbonate into the small intestine, the stomach adds acid rather than neutralising, and while the small intestine can contribute buffering locally, the described mechanism points to the pancreas as the source.