Question

which molecule buffers the lower blood ph caused by hydrogen ion release from muscle cells?
a) lactate
b) glucose
c) bicarbonate
d) atp

Explanation:

To determine the molecule that buffers lower blood pH from muscle - derived \(H^+\), we analyze each option:

• Option a: Lactate is a product of anaerobic respiration in muscles. It does not buffer \(H^+\) in the blood.
• Option b: Glucose is a source of energy for cells and has no role in blood pH buffering.
• Option c: Bicarbonate (\(HCO_3^-\)) is a key component of the blood's bicarbonate - carbonic acid buffer system. It reacts with \(H^+\) ions to form carbonic acid (\(H_2CO_3\)), which helps to stabilize blood pH.
• Option d: ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the energy currency of the cell and is not involved in blood pH buffering.

Answer:

c) Bicarbonate