Describe how the bicarbonate buffer system functions to maintain pH
What will be an ideal response?
The bicarbonate buffer system utilizes carbonic acid and its salt, sodium bicarbonate. When blood is too acidic, the bicarbonate ions of the salt act as a base and tie up more hydrogen ions. Thus, more carbonic acid is formed. A strong acid is changed to a weak acid which has less of an effect on pH. Under alkaline conditions, carbonic acid releases more hydrogen ions to bind with the hydroxide ions released by the strong base. A strong base is changed to a weak base which has less of an effect on pH.
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