41. Acid–base balance
41. Acid–base balance
- Gillian Pocock, Gillian PocockSenior Lecturer in Clinical Science, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, UK
- Christopher D. RichardsChristopher D. RichardsEmeritus Professor of Experimental Physiology, Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- and David A. RichardsDavid A. RichardsAssociate Professor, Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Husson University School of Pharmacy, Bangor, Maine, USA
Abstract
This chapter explains how the body continually produces CO2 and non-volatile acids as a result of metabolic activity. The chapter refers to the blood hydrogen ion concentration [H+] which is normally maintained within the relatively narrow range of 40-45 nmol of free hydrogen ions per litre. This corresponds to a blood pH between 7.35 and 7.4, and the extreme limits that are generally held to be compatible with life range from pH 6.8 to pH 7.7. The chapter talks about hydrogen ions which are absorbed by other molecules in a process known as buffering, and acid products are subsequently eliminated from the body via the lungs and kidneys. The concept of acid-base balance refers to the processes that maintain the hydrogen ion concentration of the body fluids within its normal limits.
