Acid-Base Balance Regulation

A measure of hydrogen ion (H+) concentration in a solution, expressed on a logarithmic scale from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral, values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are alkaline.

A substance that donates hydrogen ions (H+).

The range of pH in the extracellular fluid of the body, typically between 7.35 and 7.45.

Carbon dioxide (CO2), which is produced as a waste product of metabolism and can contribute to acidity in the blood.

Acids that are not easily removed from the body by respiration, such as those produced from the catabolism of glucose, proteins, and phospholipids.

A buffer system found within cells that helps to maintain a stable pH, composed of hydrogen phosphate (HPO4-) and dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4-) ions.

A primary buffer system in the blood, composed of bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and carbonic acid (H2CO3). It's highly effective due to the kidneys' help in regulating bicarbonate levels.

The normal concentration of bicarbonate ions in arterial blood, usually around 24 mmol/L.

A condition where the blood pH drops below 7.4, indicating increased acidity in the body.

The lungs, which are primarily responsible for regulating the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) in the blood, indirectly influencing pH.

A condition in which the blood pH rises above 7.4, indicating a decrease in acidity and an increase in alkalinity.

The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is a mathematical formula that describes the relationship between pH, pK, and the concentrations of bicarbonate (HCO3-) and dissolved carbon dioxide (PCO2) in blood.

The kidneys, which are the primary organs responsible for regulating bicarbonate concentration in the blood, playing a crucial role in overall pH balance.

A decrease in pH and bicarbonate concentration in the extracellular fluid (ECF). The body produces too much acid or loses too much bicarbonate.

The range of pH within which life is generally thought to be possible, typically between 6.8 and 7.8.

The kidneys can help to compensate for acidosis by eliminating H+ and reabsorbing bicarbonate, helping to restore pH balance.