Which organ produces digestive enzymes and bicarbonate as part of digestion?

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

Answer: (B)

Digestive enzymes and bicarbonate are provided by the pancreas through its exocrine secretions. The pancreatic juice contains enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases that break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and it also contains a large amount of bicarbonate to neutralize the acidic chyme entering the small intestine. This neutralization creates the proper pH for intestinal enzymes to function effectively. The liver mainly makes bile for fat digestion, not enzymes; the stomach produces acid and some enzyme activity (like pepsin) but not bicarbonate in the way the pancreas does; and while the small intestine carries out final digestion with its own brush-border enzymes, the pancreas is the primary source providing both digestive enzymes and bicarbonate.