Final answer:
Acidosis is a pH imbalance where blood is too acidic, while alkalosis is the opposite, with blood being too alkaline. Metabolic acidosis occurs due to bicarbonate deficiency, and respiratory fluctuations in CO2 levels can cause both acidosis and alkalosis. Diagnosis is made via blood tests measuring pH, pCO2, and HCO3-. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acidosis and alkalosis are best defined as fluctuations in blood pH and CO₂ content due to changes in the metabolic and respiratory systems. Acidosis occurs when the blood pH is lower than 7.35, indicating an excess of hydrogen ions, which can lead to decreased enzymatic reactions and serious health conditions. Alkalosis, on the other hand, signifies a blood pH higher than 7.45, indicating a scarcity of hydrogen ions, potentially leading to increased enzymatic activity and other health implications.
Metabolic acidosis is typically a result of a primary bicarbonate deficiency due to the presence of excess organic acids or ketone bodies in the blood, whereas metabolic alkalosis results from elevated pH and excess bicarbonate. Diagnosis of these conditions involves laboratory tests that measure pH, CO2 partial pressure (pCO2), and bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels, enabling the determination of the type of imbalance and the extent of compensatory mechanisms.
Respiratory causes of these imbalances are also common. For example, respiratory acidosis can occur when there is an excessive buildup of CO2 due to inadequate ventilation, and respiratory alkalosis can result from conditions where CO2 levels fall too low, such as with lung disease or anxiety.