Final answer:
The kidneys compensate for respiratory alkalosis by retaining H+ and excreting bicarbonate ion, helping to correct the blood pH imbalance caused by the loss of CO2 in the respiratory process.
Step-by-step explanation:
The kidneys can compensate for respiratory alkalosis by b. retaining H+ and excreting bicarbonate ion. In cases of respiratory alkalosis, the kidneys decrease the production of bicarbonate and reabsorb H+ from the tubular fluid. So, the correct answer is b. retaining H+ and excreting bicarbonate ion. In respiratory alkalosis, there is an excess of carbon dioxide (CO2) being expelled, leading to lower levels of carbonic acid and increased pH.
The kidneys respond to this by decreasing bicarbonate production and increasing its excretion, thus reabsorbing H+ to help neutralize the blood pH. This is part of the body’s broader compensatory mechanisms involving the lungs and kidneys to maintain the homeostasis of blood pH. It is important to note that compensation for metabolic alkalosis is less efficient compared to compensation for acidosis.