Which statement concerning the respiratory mechanism of pH control is INCORRECT?
A) Respiratory rate and depth increase as a compensatory measure to combat metabolic acidosis.
B) The respiratory system can compensate completely for metabolic acidosis.
C) The respiratory responses to acid-base imbalances represent the second line of defence against changes in pH of the body fluids.
D) Metabolic alkalosis inhibits (depresses) respiration.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The respiratory system can only partially compensate for metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, it cannot completely compensate for it. This is because respiratory compensation (altering respiratory rate and depth) can only affect the partial pressure of CO2 in the blood, which is only one factor affecting pH. Other buffering systems in the body must also come into play to bring pH back to normal.

Which Statement Concerning the Respiratory Mechanism of PH Control Is