The pH of blood is maintained by a buffering system, consistingpredominately by hydrogen carbonate ions,HCO3-, in equilibrium with carbonic acid,H2CO3, which decomposes completely toCO2 and H2O.
H3O+ + HCO3- ⇌2H2O + CO2
Questions
1. During exercise, CO2 is produced at a rapid ratein muscle.
How does exercising affect the pH of blood? Give areason for your answer.
2. Hyperventilation (rapid and deep breathing) can occur duringintense exercise.
How does hyperventilation affect the pH of the blood?Give a reason for your answer.
3. The normal first aid treatment for hyperventilation is tohave the patient breathe in and out of a paper bag.
Explain briefly why this treatment works and what effectthe paper bag treatment has on the pH of the blood.
