Summary chapter 3

During cell metabolism a number of substances with acid properties, that is, with the ability to release H⁺ ions, are formed. In addition, both acidic and basic substances are absorbed through the intestine. At the same time all the cells and the biochemical processes are dependent on certain acid-base conditions in order to function optimally. The body’s acid-base ratio must therefore be carefully regulated. The body has three partially overlapping mechanisms to prevent and correct the imbalance in the acid-base levels. These are chemical buffers, a respiratory compensation mechanism that can excrete carbon dioxide and the kidney’s ability to absorb, secrete and produce bicarbonate