Question

By definition hypoventilation will cause the blood ph to go A. above 7.45 B. below 7.35 C. above 8.5 D. below 4.54

Answer 1

Hypoventilation is a state of insufficient ventilation leading to hypercapnia, which is an increase in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide.

As explained above, hypoventilation will lead to increase in Carbon dioxide concentration in the blood. The following reaction will take place:

CO2 + H2O -----> H2CO3 -----> H+ + HCO3​-

The carbon dioxide forms carbonic acid which dissociates to form hydrogen ion. Now this H+ ion decreases blood pH. Normal blood pH is between 7.35 and 7.45. so pH less than 7.35 is acidosis. And a person won't survive untill he reaches a pH of 4.54, hence it is an illogic option.

This is known as RESPIRATORY ACIDOSIS.

So B) Below 7.35 is the correct option.

Hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any query.

Best wishes!!