Hyperventilation (rapid inhalation and exhalation) can result in respiratory alkalosis (increased blood pH). Why?
A) Hyperventilation results in inefficient gas exchange, and not enough oxygen is absorbed by the blood.
B) More metabolic waste is released into the blood, thus reducing the pH.
C) Rapid breathing depletes the blood of carbon dioxide, thus the blood pH increases.
D) Excess production of carbon dioxide decreases the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hyperventilation causes the depletion of carbon dioxide in the blood, leading to an increase in blood pH. Carbon dioxide reacts with water in the blood to form carbonic acid, which dissociates to release hydrogen ions, thereby reducing the pH of the blood. When there is a decrease in carbon dioxide due to hyperventilation, the equilibrium shifts towards the side of carbonic acid formation, resulting in an increased pH.

Hyperventilation (Rapid Inhalation and Exhalation) Can Result in Respiratory Alkalosis