Question

For proper transport of $O_2$ and $C{O}_2$, blood should be

• A. Slightly acidic
• B. Strongly acidic
• C. Strongly alkaline
• D. Slightly alkaline

Answer 1

The correct option is D Slightly alkaline

When carbon dioxide is in the blood, it reacts with water to form bicarbonate ($HCO{3}^{-}$) and hydrogen ions ($H^{+}$). As the level of carbon dioxide in the blood increases, more $H^{+}$ is produced and the pH decreases. This increase in carbon dioxide and subsequent decrease in pH reduce the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen. Thus, for the proper transport of $O_2$ and $C{O}_2$, blood should be slightly alkaline.

Hence, the correct anwer is (D).