Textbook Question
Explain what happens to the pH of a buffered solution when hydrogen ions are added. Why does this happen?
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Ch. 25 Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Homeostasis
Amerman3rd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780138247201, 9780138247928, 9780138201814
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Table of contents
- Ch. 1 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology24
- Ch. 2 The Chemistry of Life37
- Ch. 3 The Cell54
- Ch. 4 Histology46
- Ch. 5 The Integumentary System30
- Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Tissue36
- Ch. 7 The Skeletal System40
- Ch. 8 Articulations19
- Ch. 9 The Muscular System35
- Ch. 10 Muscle Tissue and Physiology29
- Ch. 11 Introduction to the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue28
- Ch. 12 The Central Nervous System41
- Ch. 13 The Peripheral Nervous System41
- Ch. 14 The Autonomic Nervous System and Homeostasis31
- Ch. 15 The Special Senses39
- Ch. 16 The Endocrine System42
- Ch. 17 The Cardiovascular System I: The Heart28
- Ch. 18 The Cardiovascular System II: The Blood Vessels43
- Ch. 19 Blood32
- Ch. 20 The Lymphatic System and Immunity41
- Ch. 21 The Respiratory System27
- Ch. 22 The Digestive System27
- Ch. 23 Metabolism and Nutrition7
- Ch. 24 The Urinary System39
- Ch. 25 Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Homeostasis39
- Ch. 26 The Reproductive System10
- Ch. 27 Development and Heredity5
Amerman3rd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780138247201, 9780138247928, 9780138201814Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 25, Problem 11
The biggest source of metabolic acids in the body is:
a. Lactic acid
b. Ketone bodies
c. Carbon dioxide
d. Uric acid
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context of the question: The problem is asking about the primary source of metabolic acids in the body. Metabolic acids are substances that can lower the pH of body fluids when they accumulate.
Review the options provided: a) Lactic acid, b) Ketone bodies, c) Carbon dioxide, and d) Uric acid. Each of these substances can contribute to acidity in the body under certain conditions, but the question is asking for the 'biggest source.'
Recall the role of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the body: CO₂ is a byproduct of cellular respiration and is constantly produced in large quantities by cells. It combines with water (H₂O) in the blood to form carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), which dissociates into hydrogen ions (H⁺) and bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻), contributing to the body's acid-base balance.
Compare the other options: Lactic acid is produced during anaerobic metabolism (e.g., intense exercise), but its production is not as constant or large-scale as CO₂. Ketone bodies are produced during prolonged fasting or uncontrolled diabetes, and uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, but neither is as significant a source of metabolic acids as CO₂.
Conclude that carbon dioxide is the biggest source of metabolic acids in the body because it is continuously produced in large amounts during normal cellular respiration and directly contributes to acid formation through the carbonic acid-bicarbonate buffer system.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Metabolic Acids
Metabolic acids are byproducts of various biochemical processes in the body, primarily resulting from the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They can affect the body's pH balance and are crucial in understanding metabolic pathways. Common metabolic acids include lactic acid, ketone bodies, and carbon dioxide.
Recommended video:
02:17
Introduction to Metabolism
Carbon Dioxide as a Metabolic Byproduct
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a significant metabolic byproduct produced during cellular respiration, particularly in the Krebs cycle. It is generated when glucose and fatty acids are oxidized for energy. CO2 is transported in the blood to the lungs for exhalation, playing a vital role in maintaining acid-base balance in the body.
Recommended video:
04:19Carbon
Acid-Base Balance
Acid-base balance refers to the mechanisms the body uses to maintain the pH of the blood and other fluids within a narrow range. This balance is crucial for normal cellular function and is influenced by the production and elimination of metabolic acids. Disruptions in this balance can lead to conditions such as acidosis or alkalosis.
Recommended video:
01:29Acids and Bases
Related Practice
Textbook Question
Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
d. Hypocalcemia causes neurons to become hyperexcitable, leading to potential tetanic contractions.
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Textbook Question
An increase in ventilation ________ the pH of the blood due to a/an ________ of carbon dioxide in the blood. A decrease in ventilation ________ the pH of the blood due to a/an ________ of carbon dioxide in the blood.
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Textbook Question
Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
c. Hyperkalemia tends to decrease the resting membrane potential and hyperpolarize excitable cells.
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Textbook Question
Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
e. Chloride ions are generally reabsorbed from the kidneys, along with bicarbonate ions.
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Textbook Question
What is the main buffer system of the ECF?
a. Protein buffer system
b. Carbonic acid–bicarbonate ion buffer system
c. Phosphate buffer system
d. None of the above
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