IGCSE Biology glossary
Bile
Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Definition
An alkaline fluid produced by the liver, stored in the gall bladder, and released into the duodenum. Bile emulsifies fats into smaller droplets to increase surface area for lipase action, and neutralises stomach acid to provide the alkaline pH needed by intestinal enzymes.
What to include in an exam answer
Bile is NOT an enzyme. It does not digest anything. It emulsifies fats (breaks them into smaller droplets) and neutralises acid. These are its two functions for exam purposes.
Example in context
State two functions of bile (2 marks): Bile emulsifies fats into smaller droplets, increasing the surface area for lipase to act on. It also neutralises the acidic chyme from the stomach, providing the alkaline conditions needed by enzymes in the small intestine.
Related syllabus topic
Human nutrition