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Chapter 2: Problem 13

State the normal pH range of blood. (p. 31)

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The normal pH range for human blood is between 7.35 and 7.45, which is slightly alkaline. Maintaining a stable pH is crucial for optimal cellular function and overall health, as deviations in pH can lead to serious health issues and even be life-threatening. The human body has a system of buffers and regulations to ensure that pH levels remain stable.

Step by step solution

01

Defining pH

pH is a logarithmic scale used to specify the acidity or basicity (alkalinity) of an aqueous solution. It is defined as the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration, which ranges from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic or alkaline). A pH of 7 indicates a neutral solution, such as pure water.
02

Importance of Stable pH in the Human Body

The pH of the human body must be carefully regulated to maintain stability, as it affects numerous biological processes. Small deviations in the pH can cause serious health issues and can be life-threatening. Many factors, such as diet, exercise, and medications, can affect the pH of the body, but the body has an intricate system of buffers, respiratory and metabolic regulation to maintain stable pH levels.
03

Normal pH Range of Blood

The normal pH range for human blood is typically between 7.35 and 7.45. This range is slightly alkaline, allowing for optimal cellular function and maintaining a stable internal environment. A pH below 7.35 is referred to as acidosis, and a pH above 7.45 is called alkalosis. Both conditions can have serious health consequences and require treatment to restore the body's pH balance.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Name the organic molecule with each of the following functions: (pp. 34, 36, 42) a. The genetic code in chromosomes b. “Self” antigens in our cell membranes c. The storage form for glucose in the liver d. The storage form for excess food in adipose tissue e. The precursor molecule for the steroid hormones f. The undigested part of food that promotes peristalsis g. The sugars that are part of the nucleic acids

Explain, in terms of their electrons, how an atom of sodium and an atom of chlorine form a molecule of sodium chloride. (p. 26)

State the role or function of each of the following in cell respiration: CO2, glucose, O2, heat, and ATP. (p. 29)

Explain the active site theory of enzyme functioning. (p. 31)

State the chemical symbol for each of the following elements: sodium, potassium, iron, calcium, oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, copper, and chlorine. (p. 24)
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