Which of the following mineral acids is found in human stomach ?

The human stomach contains gastric glands in its walls that secrete gastric juice, which is primarily composed of hydrochloric acid (HCl) [2]. This mineral acid serves several critical functions: it creates a highly acidic environment (pH 1.5 to 2.5) that facilitates the activation of the protein-digesting enzyme pepsin, helps denature food proteins, and kills harmful bacteria ingested with food [3]. While other acids like lactic acid are found in curd or sour milk, and methanoic acid is present in ant stings, they are not the primary acids produced by the stomach [5]. Hydrochloric acid is secreted by specialized parietal cells in the gastric mucosa. Excessive production of this acid can lead to indigestion or ulcers, often requiring neutralization by antacids like magnesium hydroxide [2].

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > Activity 5.3 > p. 85
2. [2] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 2: Acids, Bases and Salts > pH in our digestive system > p. 27
3. [3] Science-Class VII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 9: Life Processes in Animals > Stomach > p. 125
4. [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279304/