Multiple Choice
Which of the following cells in the stomach secrete hydrochloric acid?
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2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components
Acids and Bases
3:38 minutesProblem 25
Textbook Question
Mrs. Roberts, in a diabetic coma, has just been admitted to Noble Hospital. Her blood pH indicates that she is in severe acidosis (low blood pH), and measures are quickly instituted to bring her blood pH back within normal limits.
Define pH and note the normal pH of blood.
Why is severe acidosis a problem?
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Define pH. pH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration ([H⁺]) in a solution, indicating its acidity or alkalinity. It is calculated using the formula: \( \text{pH} = -\log_{10}[H^+] \). The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where values below 7 are acidic, 7 is neutral, and values above 7 are basic (alkaline). The normal pH of blood is tightly regulated between 7.35 and 7.45, which is slightly alkaline.
Step 2: Explain the significance of blood pH. Blood pH is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, as many enzymatic reactions and physiological processes depend on a stable pH. Deviations from the normal range can disrupt cellular function and biochemical pathways.
Step 3: Define acidosis. Acidosis refers to a condition where the blood pH drops below 7.35, indicating an excess of hydrogen ions (H⁺) or a deficit of bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻). Severe acidosis occurs when the pH drops significantly lower, which can impair organ function and lead to life-threatening complications.
Step 4: Explain why severe acidosis is problematic. Severe acidosis can disrupt the function of enzymes, alter the structure of proteins, and impair cellular metabolism. It can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to decreased contractility of the heart, and the nervous system, causing confusion or coma. Additionally, acidosis can impair oxygen delivery to tissues by altering hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen.
Step 5: Discuss the importance of intervention. In cases of severe acidosis, immediate medical intervention is necessary to restore blood pH to the normal range. This may involve administering bicarbonate to buffer excess hydrogen ions, addressing the underlying cause (e.g., managing diabetes in Mrs. Roberts' case), and monitoring vital signs to prevent further complications.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
pH Definition
pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, quantified on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, while values below 7 indicate acidity and above 7 indicate alkalinity. In the context of blood, the normal pH range is typically between 7.35 and 7.45, which is crucial for proper physiological function.
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Severe Acidosis
Severe acidosis occurs when the blood pH falls below 7.35, indicating an excess of hydrogen ions in the bloodstream. This condition can disrupt various biochemical processes, impair oxygen delivery to tissues, and lead to organ dysfunction. It is particularly dangerous because it can result in life-threatening complications if not promptly addressed.
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Homeostasis
Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes. The regulation of blood pH is a critical aspect of homeostasis, as even slight deviations can affect enzyme activity, metabolic processes, and overall health. Mechanisms such as respiration and renal function play vital roles in restoring normal pH levels when disturbances occur.
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