Chapter 16: Problem 6

Describe how panting helps to reduce the acidity of the blood

Short Answer

Expert verified

Panting helps in blood's acid-base homeostasis by reducing the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the body. As CO2 combines with water in the body to form carbonic acid, its reduction therefore leads to a decrease in the acidity of blood.

Step by step solution

Understanding Panting

Panting is a physiological response to increased body temperature or discomfort in most animals. It involves rapid, shallow respirations that increase the volume of air moving in and out of the lungs. There is an increase in the expulsion of carbon dioxide (CO2), a waste product of cellular respiration, during panting.

Role of Carbon Dioxide in Acid-Base Balance

CO2 combines with water (H2O) in the body to form carbonic acid (H2CO3), which then disassociates to form bicarbonate (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions (H+).

Relationship between CO2 and Blood Acidity

As we know that an increase in hydrogen ions (H+) in the blood causes the blood to become more acidic. Since an increase in CO2 levels leads to an increase in H+, a decrease in CO2 levels will lead to a decrease in H+ and thus reduce the acidity of the blood.

Panting and acid-base balance

Panting is thus an essential physiological mechanism that helps reduce the level of CO2 in the body which therefore reduces the amount of H+ in the blood. In this capacity, panting helps reduce the acidity of the blood, aiding in the maintenance of the body's acid-base homeostasis.

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Describe how panting helps to reduce the acidity of the blood

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Panting

Role of Carbon Dioxide in Acid-Base Balance

Relationship between CO2 and Blood Acidity

Panting and acid-base balance

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