Final answer:
The pH of urine can decrease and become more acidic as a result of a diet high in meats which produce acidic compounds. Factors such as bicarbonate and phosphate act as buffers to maintain normal urine pH.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pH of urine, which indicates its hydrogen ion concentration, can be influenced by various factors, including diet. Normally, the pH of urine varies from 4.6 to 8.0. A diet high in meats can lower the pH of urine, making it more acidic. This happens because the breakdown of meat produces sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, and uric acid, which contribute to a lower pH. Conversely, a diet rich in citrus fruits, vegetables, and dairy products typically raises the pH of urine, making it more alkaline due to the higher intake of bases from such foods.
Bicarbonate (HCO3), dihydrogen phosphate ion (H₂PO4¯), or ammonia (NH4*) serve as buffers in the urine, which help to maintain its pH within the normal range. Hence, the substances responsible for the pH of urine include these buffers that neutralize excess hydrogen ions.