An increase in the H⁺ ion concentration [H⁺] of the blood due only to an increase in the arterial PCO₂ (hypercapnia) best describes which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in the arterial PCO2 (hypercapnia) will lead to an increase in carbonic acid (H2CO3) formation, which dissociates into bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions (H+). This increase in hydrogen ion concentration will lower blood pH, leading to respiratory acidosis. This does not involve changes in metabolic processes, so metabolic acidosis or alkalosis is not a correct choice, and the term "ion concentration" rules out respiratory alkalosis.

An Increase in the H+ Ion Concentration [H+] of the Blood

An Increase in the H⁺ Ion Concentration [H⁺] of the Blood