Which statement is NOT true when the chloride shift in red blood cells occurs?
A) to prevent electrical gradient development.
B) in response to bicarbonate movement into the plasma.
C) to prevent an increase in blood pH.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The chloride shift is a physiological process that occurs in red blood cells to maintain the balance of electrical charges and prevent an increase in blood pH as carbon dioxide is transported from the tissues to the lungs. When CO2 enters red blood cells, it combines with water to form carbonic acid, which dissociates into bicarbonate ions and hydrogen ions. The bicarbonate ions are transported out of the red blood cells in exchange for chloride ions, which enter the cells to maintain their electrical neutrality. This process is necessary to prevent an accumulation of bicarbonate ions in the plasma, which would lead to an increase in blood pH (alkalosis). Therefore, statement C is not true as the chloride shift is to prevent an increase in blood pH, not to prevent its decrease.

Which Statement Is NOT True When the Chloride Shift in Red