Homework Clinic
Science Clinic => Biology => Topic started by: jazziefee on Apr 11, 2021
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A chemistry student accidentally spills chlorine bleach into a dilute acid. The mixture reacts and produces fumes that are inhaled by the student and that reduce his ventilation. Assume that the gaseous chemical produced is a base (i.e., it releases OH- in an aqueous solution), and that the chemical is absorbed into the bloodstream at the alveoli. Explain why ventilation is reduced in the patient.
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The physiological response is opposite that for acidosis. A decreased ventilation would reduce loss of CO2. By maintaining higher PCO2 in the blood, the resulting acidity would help to counteract the alkalinity resulting from the inhalation of a base.
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Thank you!