Which organ of the digestive system is a large, muscular, saclike structure that secretes hydrochloric acid and gastric juices?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by identifying the primary function of each organ listed in the options. The small intestine is responsible for nutrient absorption and enzymatic digestion, the pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin, and the liver processes nutrients and detoxifies substances.
2. Step 2: Understand the role of the stomach in the digestive system. The stomach is a large, muscular, saclike organ that plays a key role in mechanical digestion (churning food) and chemical digestion by secreting hydrochloric acid and gastric juices.
3. Step 3: Recall that hydrochloric acid in the stomach creates an acidic environment, which activates enzymes like pepsin for protein digestion and helps kill pathogens in food.
4. Step 4: Compare the functions of the stomach with the other organs listed. The secretion of hydrochloric acid and gastric juices is unique to the stomach and not performed by the small intestine, pancreas, or liver.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct organ described in the problem is the stomach, as it matches the characteristics of being a large, muscular, saclike structure that secretes hydrochloric acid and gastric juices.