BIO NMDCAT Biological Importance of Water
nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

The decrease in blood pH during strenuous exercise is a direct result of water’s role in

A. Forming bicarbonate ions from dissolved CO₂ in plasma
B. Dissolving lactic acid produced by anaerobic respiration
C. Photolyzing carbonic acid into water and CO₂
D. Binding to hemoglobin to buffer hydrogen ions

📝 Explanation

The hydration of CO₂ (CO₂ + H₂O → H₂CO₃) produces carbonic acid, which dissociates into H⁺ and HCO₃⁻. The release of H⁺ lowers the pH. This is a major source of acidity, not just the dissolution of pre-formed lactic acid.

📖 Additional Information

  • Forming bicarbonate ions from dissolved CO₂ in plasma
  • Dissolving lactic acid produced by anaerobic respiration
  • Photolyzing carbonic acid into water and CO₂
  • Binding to hemoglobin to buffer hydrogen ions

The hydration of CO₂ (CO₂ + H₂O → H₂CO₃) produces carbonic acid, which dissociates into H⁺ and HCO₃⁻. The release of H⁺ lowers the pH. This is a major source of acidity, not just the dissolution of pre-formed lactic acid.

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