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Multiple Choice
In the context of renal physiology, how many hydrogen ions ($\mathrm{H^+}$) must be secreted into the filtrate in order to reabsorb one bicarbonate ion ($\mathrm{HCO_3^-}$)?
A
Four
B
Three
C
One
D
Two
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the relationship between hydrogen ions ($\mathrm{H^+}$) and bicarbonate ions ($\mathrm{HCO_3^-}$) in renal physiology. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance by secreting hydrogen ions into the filtrate and reabsorbing bicarbonate ions.
Recall that for every bicarbonate ion ($\mathrm{HCO_3^-}$) reabsorbed, a hydrogen ion ($\mathrm{H^+}$) must be secreted into the filtrate. This process occurs in the proximal tubule of the nephron.
The mechanism involves the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which facilitates the conversion of carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) and water ($\mathrm{H_2O}$) into carbonic acid ($\mathrm{H_2CO_3}$). Carbonic acid then dissociates into a hydrogen ion ($\mathrm{H^+}$) and a bicarbonate ion ($\mathrm{HCO_3^-}$).
The hydrogen ion ($\mathrm{H^+}$) is actively secreted into the filtrate, while the bicarbonate ion ($\mathrm{HCO_3^-}$) is reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This exchange helps regulate blood pH and maintain homeostasis.
Based on this physiological process, the secretion of one hydrogen ion ($\mathrm{H^+}$) is required to reabsorb one bicarbonate ion ($\mathrm{HCO_3^-}$).