Question

The body's ability to correct an excess or deficit of a metabolic acid depends on normal function of which system?

1) Respiratory system
2) Circulatory system
3) Digestive system
4) Endocrine system

Answer 1

The body's ability to correct an excess or deficit of a metabolic acid depends on the normal function of the respiratory system. It can increase or decrease the respiratory rate to readjust the bicarbonate to carbonic acid ratio in the blood, providing respiratory compensation for metabolic acidosis or alkalosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The body's ability to correct an excess or deficit of a metabolic acid depends on normal function of the respiratory system.

When there is an excess of metabolic acid, the respiratory system increases the respiratory rate to drive off carbon dioxide (CO2), which helps readjust the bicarbonate to carbonic acid ratio in the blood. This adjustment can occur within minutes and is a form of respiratory compensation for metabolic acidosis.

Conversely, when there is a deficit of metabolic acid, the respiratory system decreases the respiratory rate to conserve CO2, which helps maintain the bicarbonate to carbonic acid ratio. However, the respiratory system is less efficient at compensating for metabolic alkalosis than for acidosis.