The acidic semidigested food coming out of the stomach is neutralized by

The correct answer is Option 4: bile juice. In the digestive process, the stomach produces highly acidic chyme (semidigested food) due to the presence of hydrochloric acid. For further digestion to occur in the small intestine, this acidity must be neutralized to provide an alkaline medium for pancreatic enzymes to function.

• Bile Juice (Option 4): Produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, bile contains sodium bicarbonate and other salts. These alkaline components act directly to neutralize the gastric acid as the chyme enters the duodenum.
• Pancreatic Juice (Option 1): While it is also alkaline and aids in neutralization, its primary role is the enzymatic breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
• Duodenal Secretions (Option 2): These primarily provide mucus for lubrication and protection of the intestinal lining.
• Large Intestine (Option 3): This organ is involved in water absorption and waste formation, not the neutralization of gastric chyme.

Therefore, bile juice is the fundamental secretion responsible for neutralizing the acidic chyme and emulsifying fats.