Question

In normal conditions within the human body:

a. H₂CO₃ H⁺⁺ HCO₃⁻ occurs
b. H+⁺⁺ HCO₃⁻ H₂CO₃ occurs
c. an enzyme catalyzes the reaction of carbonic acid into carbon dioxide and water
d. each of the above is correct

Answer 1

All of the options listed in the student's question are correct as they describe processes that are part of the carbon dioxide transport mechanism and acid-base balance in the human body, involving carbonic acid, bicarbonate, hydrogen ions, and the enzyme carbonic anhydrase.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question refers to the chemical reactions involving carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), bicarbonate (HCO3−), and hydrogen ions (H+) within the human body. In normal conditions, the biological reaction proceeds as follows:

1. Carbon dioxide (CO2) reacts with water (H2O) to form carbonic acid (H2CO3).
2. Carbonic acid (H2CO3) dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO3−) and hydrogen ions (H+).
3. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which increases the reaction rate.
4. The presence of carbonic anhydrase facilitates the conversion of CO2 into HCO3− quickly enough to maintain homeostasis in the blood and allow for efficient CO2 transport to the lungs.

Thus, the correct answer is d. each of the above is correct, as all listed processes occur within the human body.