Why does the human stomach not get harmed by the hydrochloric acid it produces during digestion?

Question

Accepted Answer

## Model Answer The gastric glands in the stomach wall secrete **mucus** along with hydrochloric acid and pepsin. This mucus forms a protective lining on the inner wall of the stomach, shielding it from the corrosive action of the acid under normal conditions. Thus, the stomach does not get damaged by its own acid. *Source: Chapter 5, Section 5.2.4 – Nutrition in Human Beings* --- ## Explanation - Examiners expect two key points: (1) mucus is secreted by gastric glands, and (2) mucus protects the inner lining from acid. - The word **"under normal conditions"** is important — it also hints at why excess acid causes acidity/ulcers, which shows understanding. - Avoid writing vague phrases like "the stomach is strong"; be specific about mucus as the protective agent.

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