Chapter 4, Problem 13A

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The pH is maintained in the respiratory system. For example: lungs by the exchange of the oxygen and carbon dioxide gas through the alveoli or air sacs. The carbon dioxide gas reaches the blood vessels, where carbonic acid is formed by the action of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase. Carbonic acid acts as a buffer and maintains the concentration of the hydrogen and bicarbonate ions. The urinary system involves the kidney where the pH (power of hydronium ions) is maintained by the flow of the hydrogen, sodium, potassium and ammonia ions across the membranes of the nephrons. The secretion, excretion and re-absorption of the ions maintain the pH in the urinary system.