Increasing blood concentrations of carbon dioxide and hydrogen ions have similar effects upon the respiratory areas due to
A) their similarity in chemical structure, inhibiting the respiratory rate.
B) both chemically bonding, decreasing the respiratory rate.
C) an increase in carbon dioxide, increasing hydrogen ions.
D) both increasing pH and inhibiting the respiratory areas.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carbon dioxide and water combine to form carbonic acid, which dissociates to release hydrogen ions. Therefore, an increase in carbon dioxide causes an increase in hydrogen ions. Both carbon dioxide and hydrogen ions act as respiratory stimulants, causing an increase in respiratory rate.

Increasing Blood Concentrations of Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen Ions Have