Which acid is secreted by the cells of the gastric glands in the stomach?

Options

A. Hydrochloric acid
B. Sulphuric acid
C. Nitric acid
D. Hydroiodic acid

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks which acid is secreted by the cells of the gastric glands in the stomach.

2. **Identifying the Gastric Glands**: The gastric glands are located in the stomach and are responsible for secreting various substances that aid in digestion.

3. **Types of Cells in Gastric Glands**: There are three major types of cells in the gastric glands:
- Mucous neck cells
- Chief cells (also known as peptic cells)
- Parietal cells (also known as oxyntic cells)

4. **Functions of Each Cell Type**:
- **Mucous Neck Cells**: These cells secrete mucus, which protects the stomach lining.
- **Chief Cells**: These cells secrete pepsinogen, which is an inactive form of the enzyme pepsin.
- **Parietal Cells**: These cells secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is essential for creating an acidic environment in the stomach.

5. **Identifying the Correct Acid**: Among the options provided:
- Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is the acid secreted by the parietal cells of the gastric glands.
- The other options (sulfuric acid, nitric acid, hydroiodic acid) are not secreted by the gastric glands.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the acid that is secreted by the cells of the gastric glands in the stomach is hydrochloric acid.

**Final Answer**: Hydrochloric acid.

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