Which buffer maintains acid-base chemistry in the blood?

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Multiple Choice

Which buffer maintains acid-base chemistry in the blood?

Bicarbonate buffering keeps blood pH stable by using the bicarbonate/carbonic acid pair. Carbon dioxide produced by tissues dissolves in blood and, with carbonic anhydrase, forms carbonic acid that quickly dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO3−) and hydrogen ions. When acid is added, H+ combines with HCO3− to form H2CO3, which becomes CO2 and water, neutralizing the acid. When base is added, the equilibrium shifts to form more H2CO3 and HCO3−, helping prevent pH from rising. The balance is governed by the ratio of HCO3− to CO2 (as dissolved CO2), which the body maintains through the lungs (ventilation of CO2) and the kidneys (reabsorption or generation of HCO3−). Other electrolytes like chloride/sodium, sodium/potassium, or calcium are important for numerous functions but do not serve as the primary acid–base buffer in blood.

Bicarbonate buffering keeps blood pH stable by using the bicarbonate/carbonic acid pair. Carbon dioxide produced by tissues dissolves in blood and, with carbonic anhydrase, forms carbonic acid that quickly dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO3−) and hydrogen ions. When acid is added, H+ combines with HCO3− to form H2CO3, which becomes CO2 and water, neutralizing the acid. When base is added, the equilibrium shifts to form more H2CO3 and HCO3−, helping prevent pH from rising. The balance is governed by the ratio of HCO3− to CO2 (as dissolved CO2), which the body maintains through the lungs (ventilation of CO2) and the kidneys (reabsorption or generation of HCO3−). Other electrolytes like chloride/sodium, sodium/potassium, or calcium are important for numerous functions but do not serve as the primary acid–base buffer in blood.

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