Question

The pH of blood does not appreciably change by a small addition of acid or a base because blood:

• A. contains serum protein which acts as buffer
• B. contains iron as a part of the molecule
• C. can be easily coagulated
• D. is body fluid

Answer 1

The correct option is A contains serum protein which acts as buffer

Serum, the plasma component of blood which lacks coagulation factors, is similar to the interstitial fluid in which the correct composition of key ions acting as electrolytes is essential for normal functioning of muscles and nerves. Other components in the serum include proteins, which assist with maintaining pH and osmotic balance while giving viscosity to the blood; antibodies, or specialized proteins that are important for defense against viruses and bacteria; lipids, including cholesterol, which are transported in the serum; and various other substances including nutrients, hormones, metabolic waste, and external substances, such as drugs, viruses, and bacteria.

Human serum albumin, the most abundant protein in human blood plasma, is synthesized in the liver. Albumin, which constitutes about one-half of the blood serum protein, transports hormones and fatty acids, buffers pH, and maintains osmotic pressures.