Answer to Question 1
Proteins are involved in regulation of how acidic or basic body fluids are. One way that blood pH is maintained is through the buffering action of proteins such as hemoglobin. Amino acids can readily accept and donate charged hydrogen ions. When the hydrogen ion concentration in the blood is too high (acidic), negatively charged proteins can bind excess hydrogen ions, restoring the blood to its proper pH. Conversely, proteins can release hydrogen into the blood when the hydrogen concentration is too low (basic). As a result of its reliance on protein buffers, the body can have difficulty maintaining its optimal pH balance during periods of severe protein deficiency.
Answer to Question 2
b