Physiology 2130 Chapter Notes -Sodium Bicarbonate, Methanol, Collecting Duct System

• School: Western University
• Department: Physiology
• Course: Physiology 2130
• Professor: Anita Woods

Document Summary

In this module, we will look at the relationship between hydrogen ions (h+) and acidity. We will also define what acids and bases are, what the ph scale is, and why it is important to maintain h+ at precise levels. We will also look at the different mechanisms in the body for regulating h+ concentrations (and thus ph) and we will also learn about some of the things that can alter the ph of the body. Many chemical reactions that take place in the body, and most of the machinery inside all the cells, are very sensitive to the presence of hydrogen ions. Hydrogen ions (h+) can alter the shape of proteins that act as enzymes that speed up chemical reactions. As a result, any change in the concentration of h+ will affect the activity of almost every cell. Therefore, it is essential that h+ concentration be very carefully regulated.