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Multiple Choice
Most human cells function best near physiological pH. What is the approximate pH for most human cells?
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that pH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution, defined as \(\mathrm{pH} = -\log[\mathrm{H}^+]\).
Recognize that physiological pH refers to the typical pH inside most human cells and bodily fluids, which is tightly regulated to maintain proper cellular function.
Recall that pure water has a neutral pH of 7, and biological systems usually maintain a slightly different pH to optimize enzyme activity and biochemical reactions.
Know that the normal physiological pH inside most human cells and blood is slightly basic, around 7.4, which is close to neutral but slightly above 7.
Therefore, the approximate pH for most human cells is about 7.4, not highly acidic (like 2), highly basic (like 9 or 12), but slightly basic to maintain homeostasis.