Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Acid-Base Balance

Anatomy & Physiology

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Acid-Base Balance

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Problem 18c

Textbook Question

Define and give an example of:
(c) A metabolic acid.
Which represents the greatest threat to acid-base balance? Why?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Define a metabolic acid. Metabolic acids are acids produced as byproducts of metabolic processes in the body. These include lactic acid (produced during anaerobic respiration), keto acids (produced during fat metabolism), and carbonic acid (formed from the combination of carbon dioxide and water).

Step 2: Provide an example of a metabolic acid. For instance, lactic acid is produced during intense exercise when oxygen supply to muscles is insufficient, leading to anaerobic respiration.

Step 3: Explain the greatest threat to acid-base balance. Among metabolic acids, carbonic acid represents the greatest threat to acid-base balance because it is directly linked to respiratory function and the regulation of CO₂ levels in the blood.

Step 4: Discuss why carbonic acid poses a significant threat. Carbonic acid can rapidly accumulate if respiratory function is impaired, leading to respiratory acidosis. This disrupts the body's pH balance and can have severe physiological consequences.

Step 5: Highlight the importance of acid-base regulation. The body uses buffer systems, such as the bicarbonate buffer system, to maintain pH within a narrow range (7.35–7.45). Any disruption in the production or elimination of metabolic acids can compromise this balance, emphasizing the need for proper respiratory and metabolic function.

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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 organic acids produced during metabolic processes in the body, primarily from the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Common examples include lactic acid, which forms during anaerobic respiration, and ketoacids, which arise from fat metabolism. These acids can influence the body's pH levels and are crucial in understanding acid-base balance.

Acid-Base Balance

Acid-base balance refers to the mechanisms that maintain the pH of body fluids within a narrow range, essential for normal physiological functions. The body utilizes buffers, respiratory control, and renal regulation to manage acid levels. Disruptions in this balance can lead to conditions such as acidosis or alkalosis, which can have serious health implications.

Greatest Threat to Acid-Base Balance

The greatest threat to acid-base balance often comes from the accumulation of strong acids, such as sulfuric or phosphoric acid, which can significantly lower blood pH. Metabolic acidosis, resulting from conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis or renal failure, poses a severe risk as it overwhelms the body's buffering systems, leading to detrimental effects on cellular function and overall health.