<prompt> The most important function of hydrochloric acid in the stomach is:Destruction of bacteriaNeutralization of chymeActivation of pepsinogenStimulation of pancreatic secretion  <response>: Functions of HCl are: activation of pepsinogen to pepsin by providing acidic medium,bacteriolytic action andacidification of chyme which cause release of secretin and cholecystokinin hormones. 