Final answer:
Option A.
In response to metabolic acidosis, the lungs increase the respiratory rate to correct the pH imbalance through a process called hyperventilation. The correct option is a. Hyperventilate (increase respiratory rate).
Step-by-step explanation:
The lungs play a critical role in the body's response to metabolic acidosis. In this condition, the body works to balance the pH by increasing the respiratory rate, a process known as hyperventilation.
By hyperventilating, the lungs excrete more carbon dioxide (CO2), which is a component of the bicarbonate buffering system.
The increased removal of CO2 shifts the bicarbonate to carbonic acid ratio back towards normal (20:1), helping to correct the pH imbalance.
Therefore, in response to metabolic acidosis, the lungs increase the respiratory rate, which is hyperventilation.
Hence, the correct option in the final answer is a. Hyperventilate (increase respiratory rate).