Textbook Question
Define and give an example of:
(a) A volatile acid
(b) A fixed acid, and
(c) A metabolic acid
Which represents the greatest threat to acid-base balance? Why?
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26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance
Acid-Base Balance
Problem 8
Textbook Question
Respiratory acidosis develops when the blood pH is:
(a) Increased due to a decreased blood PπΈββ level
(b) Decreased due to an increased blood PπΈββ level
(c) Increased due to an increased blood PπΈββ level
(d) Decreased due to a decreased blood PπΈββ level
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of respiratory acidosis: It occurs when the blood becomes more acidic (lower pH) due to an accumulation of carbon dioxide (COβ) in the bloodstream. COβ combines with water to form carbonic acid (HβCOβ), which dissociates into hydrogen ions (HβΊ) and bicarbonate ions (HCOββ»), lowering the pH.
Recall the relationship between blood PπΈββ (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) and pH: An increase in PπΈββ leads to more COβ in the blood, which increases the production of HβΊ ions, thereby decreasing the pH (making the blood more acidic). Conversely, a decrease in PπΈββ reduces COβ levels, leading to fewer HβΊ ions and a higher pH (making the blood more basic).
Analyze the options provided: (a) Increased pH due to decreased PπΈββ describes a condition of respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis. (b) Decreased pH due to increased PπΈββ aligns with the definition of respiratory acidosis. (c) Increased pH due to increased PπΈββ is incorrect because increased PπΈββ lowers pH. (d) Decreased pH due to decreased PπΈββ is also incorrect because decreased PπΈββ raises pH.
Focus on the correct physiological mechanism: Respiratory acidosis is specifically caused by hypoventilation or conditions that impair COβ elimination, leading to increased PπΈββ and decreased pH.
Select the correct answer based on the analysis: The correct option is (b), as it accurately describes the development of respiratory acidosis due to increased blood PπΈββ levels causing a decrease in pH.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Respiratory Acidosis
Respiratory acidosis is a condition characterized by an increase in carbon dioxide (COβ) levels in the blood, leading to a decrease in blood pH. This occurs when the respiratory system fails to remove COβ efficiently, often due to conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or respiratory failure. Understanding this concept is crucial for identifying the physiological changes that occur during respiratory acidosis.
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Blood pH and COβ Relationship
The relationship between blood pH and carbon dioxide levels is governed by the bicarbonate buffer system. An increase in COβ results in the formation of carbonic acid, which dissociates to release hydrogen ions, thus lowering pH. Conversely, a decrease in COβ leads to a higher pH. This concept is essential for understanding how changes in COβ levels directly affect blood acidity and the development of respiratory acidosis.
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Acid-Base Balance
Acid-base balance refers to the mechanisms that maintain the pH of body fluids within a narrow range, crucial for normal physiological functions. The body employs buffers, respiratory control, and renal function to regulate pH. A thorough understanding of acid-base balance is necessary to interpret the implications of respiratory acidosis and its effects on overall health.
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