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24. Some of the functions of the stomach include:
a) Release HCl and enzymes like pepsin to begin break down of proteins. The low pH is an optimal pH for the action of pepsin.
b) The low pH is an environment that destroys most bacteria and pathogens.
c) Musclcular contractions of the stomach walls mix the food and acid and enzymes and begins crushing large food items into smaller pieces.
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