Final answer:
Respiratory alkalosis leads to CO2 deficiency in the bloodstream. The kidneys compensate by eliminating more bicarbonate to bring blood pH into the normal range.
Step-by-step explanation:
Respiratory alkalosis is a condition characterized by CO2 deficiency in the bloodstream. The kidneys play a compensatory role by eliminating more bicarbonate in order to reestablish the proper ratios of bicarbonate and carbonic acid/CO2, and bring the blood pH into the physiological range. This renal retention of bicarbonate acts as a compensatory mechanism to counteract the respiratory alkalosis.