You inform Mr. Li that stomach acid is composed of hydrochloric acid (HCl), a strong acid. He then asks, "What is the role of HCl in the stomach?" Which of the following statements would be the best response?
a. HCl assists in the digestion of consumed foods and destroys ingested microorganisms.
b. HCl protects the stomach from digesting itself with its powerful enzymes.
c. HCl neutralizes the low pH of the stomach.
d. HCl is needed for the synthesis of proteins.