Introduction to Acid-Base Balance

These flashcards cover key terminology related to acid-base balance, including definitions of physiological concepts, conditions, and systems involved in maintaining pH homeostasis.

Hydrogen ion

A positively charged ion (H+) that plays a key role in determining the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.

pH

A measure of how acidic or alkaline a solution is, calculated as the negative logarithm of the concentration of hydrogen ions.

Respiratory acidosis

A condition characterized by an increase in carbon dioxide levels due to inadequate ventilation, leading to a decrease in pH.

Metabolic acidosis

A condition where the body produces excess acid or fails to remove it, resulting in a low pH and low bicarbonate levels.

Buffering system

Chemical substances that help maintain pH balance by counteracting additions of acids or bases.

Carbonic acid

A volatile acid (H2CO3) formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water.

Bicarbonate buffer system

The primary buffer system in extracellular fluid involving the equilibrium between carbonic acid and bicarbonate ions.

Compensatory mechanisms

Physiological processes that help stabilize pH in response to acid-base imbalances.

Hyperventilation

Increased rate and depth of breathing that decreases carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Acid-base homeostasis

The process by which the body maintains the pH of its fluids within a narrow range.

Renal system

The body system that regulates fluid and electrolyte balance and removes waste through urine.

Alkalosis

A condition in which the body fluids have excess base (alkali), leading to a rise in blood pH.

Acidosis

A condition where the body fluids contain increased levels of hydrogen ions, resulting in a lowering of pH.

Partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2)

A measure of the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood, used to assess respiratory function.

Ammonia buffering

A mechanism where ammonia ions combine with hydrogen ions to form ammonium, helping to neutralize acids.

Electrolyte disturbances

Imbalances in ion concentrations that can affect bodily functions and may result from acid-base imbalances.

Potassium-hydrogen exchange

A process where excess hydrogen ions in the extracellular fluid can displace potassium from cells, affecting serum potassium levels.