An increase in blood levels of carbon dioxide results in a decrease in blood pH because an increase in PCO₂ A)decreases H⁺ ion levels in the plasma. B)promotes an increase in lactic acid production in the muscle. C)reacts with water to form carbonic acid,which dissociates to release H⁺. D)none of the above answers are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When carbon dioxide dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid, which dissociates to release hydrogen ions (H+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3-). This leads to an increase in the concentration of H+ ions in the blood, resulting in a decrease in blood pH.

An Increase in Blood Levels of Carbon Dioxide Results in a Decrease