Final answer:
Metabolic acidosis is associated with decreased arterial pH and bicarbonate levels. It occurs when the blood is too acidic due to a deficiency of bicarbonate.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metabolic acidosis is associated with decreased arterial pH and bicarbonate levels. It occurs when the blood is too acidic (pH below 7.35) due to a deficiency of bicarbonate. The most common cause of metabolic acidosis is the presence of organic acids or excessive ketones in the blood. This imbalance can be identified through blood tests that measure the pH and bicarbonate levels.