Anatomy and Physiology II Practice Test

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What happens to the amount of H2CO3 in the blood when a fixed acid is buffered?

Increases
Decreases
Remains unchanged
Fluctuates

The correct answer is: Increases

When a fixed acid is buffered in the blood, it leads to the formation of carbonic acid (H2CO3) as part of the buffering process. The primary function of buffers in the body is to resist changes in pH by neutralizing excess acids and bases. When a fixed acid, such as sulfuric acid, is introduced into the bloodstream, the buffering agents—primarily bicarbonate ions (HCO3-)—react with the excess hydrogen ions (H+) from the acid. This reaction produces more carbonic acid (H2CO3), thereby increasing its concentration in the blood. The increased H2CO3 can then dissociate to produce additional hydrogen ions and bicarbonate ions, contributing to maintaining the acid-base balance in the body. Therefore, when fixed acids are buffered, the result is an increase in the amount of H2CO3 present in the blood. This process highlights the dynamic nature of buffering systems and their critical role in regulating pH levels, which is essential for normal physiological function.