ACID-BASE BALANCE

What determines if a solution is acidic or basic in terms of pH?

The concentration of hydrogen ions (H+); an increase in H+ decreases pH (acidic), while a decrease in H+ increases pH (basic).

What is the normal pH range of arterial blood?

7.35 to 7.45.

What is Acidemia?

A condition where arterial blood pH is less than 7.35.

What is Alkalemia?

A condition where arterial blood pH is greater than 7.45.

According to Bronsted-Lowry theory, what is the role of an acid?

An acid donates protons.

According to Bronsted-Lowry theory, what is the role of a base?

A base accepts protons.

Define Dissolved Carbon Dioxide in blood.

Includes un-dissociated carbonic acid (H2CO3) and carbon dioxide dissolved in blood (PCO2).

What is the primary function of the kidneys in acid-base balance?

To regulate hydrogen ion concentration and maintain blood pH through acid secretion and bicarbonate regulation.

How do the lungs help in acid-base balance?

By regulating the carbon dioxide levels through gas exchange, affecting the blood pH.

What pathologic condition is associated with increased pCO2?

Acidosis.

What pathologic condition is associated with decreased bicarbonate (HCO3)?

Acidosis.

What occurs during acidosis in terms of hydrogen ion management by the kidneys?

Hydrogen ions are excreted; bicarbonate is reclaimed.

What is the ratio of bicarbonate to carbonic acid during complete compensation?

20:1.

What does the acronym ROME stand for?

Respiratory conditions: Opposite relationship with pH; Metabolic conditions: Equal relationship with pH.

What happens to protein functions in extreme pH levels?

It can lead to denaturation of proteins, affecting processes like gas exchange in hemoglobin.

What happens if there is an increase in H+ ions in the blood?

It decreases the pH, causing an acidic state.

What is the effect of a decrease in H+ ion concentration on blood pH?

It increases the pH, causing an alkaline state.

How does the medulla oblongata regulate respiration related to pH?

It adjusts the rate and depth of respiration based on signals from chemoreceptors monitoring blood pH.

What is the definition of Respiratory Acidosis?

A condition characterized by increased pCO2 due to impaired gas exchange.

What is the definition of Metabolic Alkalosis?

A condition characterized by decreased HCO3- and a proportionate increase in blood pH.

What role do carbon dioxide levels play in acid-base balance?

Elevated CO2 levels can lead to acidosis, while decreased levels can lead to alkalosis.

What is non-compensation in terms of acid-base balance?

When the pH is completely far from normal and the compensatory organ is unable to restore pH to normal levels.

Define complete compensation.

When the pH has returned to normal range post-pathological condition.

What is a rapid compensation mechanism for pH balance?

Respiration, which acts rapidly but has a short duration of effect.

What condition would lead to retention of bicarbonate?

Alkalosis, where kidneys conserve H+ and excrete bicarbonate.

What could indicate respiratory dysfunction during pH evaluation?

A significant deviation in pCO2 levels.

What is the role of bicarbonate in acid-base balance?

It acts as a buffer to maintain blood pH, especially during alkalosis.

What would happen during hyperventilation in relation to acid-base balance?

pCO2 is decreased, leading potentially to alkalosis.

What is the significance of tight pH regulation in the body?

Essential for proper metabolic functioning and the integrity of various biochemical processes.

How does the body respond to changes in hydrogen ion concentration?

By compensating through the lungs and kidneys to maintain pH within normal limits.