The respiratory system works in the regulation of acid-base balance by lowering A)arterial PO₂. B)arterial PCO₂. C)blood levels of HCO₃. D)None of the above answers are correct

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The respiratory system plays a key role in maintaining acid-base balance by regulating the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) and bicarbonate (HCO3-) in the blood. When the blood becomes too acidic (low pH), the respiratory system increases the rate and depth of breathing, which helps to eliminate excess CO2 and increase blood pH. Alternatively, when blood becomes too alkaline (high pH), the respiratory system decreases breathing rate and depth, allowing CO2 to accumulate and decrease blood pH. The main marker of acid-base balance in the blood is arterial PCO2, or the partial pressure of CO2 in the arterial blood. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as the respiratory system lowers arterial PCO2 to regulate acid-base balance.

The Respiratory System Works in the Regulation of Acid-Base Balance