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Ch. 2 The Chemical Level of Organization
Martini - Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology 12th Edition
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew12th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy and PhysiologyISBN: 9780137854011Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 2, Problem 11

A pH of 7.8 in the human body typifies a condition referred to as
(a) Acidosis
(b) Alkalosis
(c) Dehydration
(d) Homeostasis

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the normal pH range of human blood, which is typically around 7.35 to 7.45, indicating a slightly alkaline environment.
Step 2: Recognize that a pH value below 7.35 indicates acidosis, a condition where the blood is too acidic.
Step 3: Recognize that a pH value above 7.45 indicates alkalosis, a condition where the blood is too alkaline.
Step 4: Compare the given pH value of 7.8 to the normal range and determine whether it is acidic or alkaline relative to normal blood pH.
Step 5: Conclude that since 7.8 is above the normal range, the condition is alkalosis, which corresponds to option (b).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

pH Scale and Normal Blood pH

The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a solution is, ranging from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Normal human blood pH is tightly regulated between 7.35 and 7.45. Values above this range indicate a more basic (alkaline) state, while values below indicate acidity.
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pH Scale

Alkalosis

Alkalosis is a condition where the blood pH rises above the normal range, typically above 7.45, indicating increased alkalinity. It can result from factors like hyperventilation or excessive loss of acids and affects bodily functions by disrupting enzyme activity and electrolyte balance.
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Homeostasis Example 1

Acidosis

Acidosis occurs when blood pH falls below the normal range (below 7.35), indicating increased acidity. It can be caused by respiratory or metabolic issues and leads to symptoms like fatigue and confusion due to impaired cellular function.
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Homeostasis Example 1