[Campbell Biology P.958] Which of the following statements correctly describes the role and ... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements correctly describes the role and origin of bile in human digestion?

  • A: Bile is a digestive enzyme secreted by the pancreas that breaks down fats.
  • B: Bile is produced by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and emulsifies fats.
  • C: Bile is produced by the gallbladder, stored in the liver, and digests carbohydrates.
  • D: Bile is produced by the stomach and neutralizes chyme acidity.

Explanation

Bile is secreted by the liver, stored and concentrated in the gallbladder. Its function is to act as an emulsifier like a detergent to break apart fat and lipid globules, facilitating their digestion by enzymes. It does not act as an enzyme itself, nor is it involved in neutralizing acidity; bicarbonate from the pancreas performs that role.