Multiple Choice
Normal arterial blood pH is __________.
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance
Acid-Base Balance
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which of the following has the LEAST influence over the pH of blood plasma?
A
respiratory rate
B
the protein buffer system
C
the phosphate buffer system
D
the bicarbonate buffer system
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of buffers in maintaining blood plasma pH. Buffers help resist changes in pH by neutralizing excess acids or bases.
Identify the main buffer systems in the blood: the bicarbonate buffer system, the protein buffer system, and the phosphate buffer system.
Examine the bicarbonate buffer system, which is the primary buffer system in blood plasma. It involves the equilibrium between carbonic acid (H₂CO₃) and bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻). This system is closely linked to respiratory rate, as CO₂ levels affect the concentration of carbonic acid.
Consider the protein buffer system, which involves amino acids in proteins that can accept or donate hydrogen ions, thus influencing pH. This system is significant but less influential than the bicarbonate system.
Evaluate the phosphate buffer system, which is more active in intracellular fluids and the kidneys rather than blood plasma. It has the least influence on blood plasma pH compared to the other systems.
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Acid-Base Balance practice set
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