(a) The partial pressure of CO2 in the lungs can be varied rapidly by the rate and depth of breathing. For example, a common remedy to alleviate hiccups is to increase the concentration of CO2 in the lungs. This can be achieved by holding one’s breath, by very slow and shallow breathing (hypoventilation), or by breathing in and out of a paper bag.Under such conditions, pCO2 in the air space of the lungs rises above normal. Qualitatively explain the effect of these procedures on the blood pH.(b) A common practice of competitive short-distance runners is to breathe rapidly and deeply (hyperventilate) for about half a minute to remove CO2from their lungs just before the race begins. Blood pH may rise to 7.60. Explain why the blood pH increases.(c) During a short-distance run, the muscles produce a large amount of lactic acid (CH2CH(OH)COOH; K2 = 1.38 × 10 –4 M) from their glucose stores. Why might hyperventilation before a dash be useful?
(a) The partial pressure of CO2 in the lungs can be varied rapidly by the rate and depth of breathing. For example, a common remedy to alleviate hiccups is to increase the concentration of CO2 in the lungs. This can be achieved by holding one’s breath, by very slow and shallow breathing (hypoventilation), or by breathing in and out of a paper bag.
Under such conditions, pCO2 in the air space of the lungs rises above normal. Qualitatively explain the effect of these procedures on the blood pH.
(b) A common practice of competitive short-distance runners is to breathe rapidly and deeply (hyperventilate) for about half a minute to remove CO2
from their lungs just before the race begins. Blood pH may rise to 7.60. Explain why the blood pH increases.
(c) During a short-distance run, the muscles produce a large amount of lactic acid (CH2CH(OH)COOH; K2 = 1.38 × 10 –4 M) from their glucose stores. Why might hyperventilation before a dash be useful?
Trending now
This is a popular solution!
Step by step
Solved in 2 steps
