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Ch. 27 Fluids & Electrolytes
Martini - Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology 11th Edition
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew11th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136874089Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksMartini, Nath, Bartholomew 11th EditionCh. 27 Fluids & ElectrolytesProblem 18c
Chapter 26, Problem 18c

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
1
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.
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Introduction to Metabolism

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.
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Acids and Bases

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.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

Define and give an example of:

(b) A fixed acid, and 

 Which represents the greatest threat to acid-base balance? Why?

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Textbook Question

Differentiate between respiratory compensation and renal compensation.

148
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Textbook Question

Why should a person with a fever drink plenty of fluids?

130
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Textbook Question

What are the three major buffer systems in body fluids? How does each system work?

363
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Textbook Question

How do respiratory and renal mechanisms support the buffer systems?

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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?

122
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