Which molecules help to regulate the bodys acid base balance?

The molecules that help to maintain the body's acid-base balance include:

1. Bicarbonate ions (HCO3-): Bicarbonate ions are the primary buffers in the body fluids. They react with hydrogen ions (H+) to form carbonic acid (H2CO3), which then dissociates into water and carbon dioxide (CO2). This reaction helps to prevent the pH of the body fluids from becoming too acidic.

2. Carbon dioxide (CO2): Carbon dioxide is a respiratory acid that is produced by the cells of the body as a waste product of metabolism. When CO2 dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid, which dissociates into H+ and HCO3- ions. This reaction helps to regulate the pH of the blood and other body fluids.

3. Phosphate ions (HPO42- and H2PO4-): Phosphate ions are another important buffer system in the body. They can react with H+ ions to form dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4-) or hydrogen phosphate (HPO42-) ions, depending on the pH of the solution. This reaction helps to maintain the pH of the body fluids within a narrow range.

4. Proteins: Proteins can also act as buffers by binding to H+ ions. This helps to prevent the pH of the body fluids from becoming too acidic. Proteins are particularly important in buffering the pH of the stomach, which has a very acidic environment.

5. Ammonia (NH3): Ammonia is a weak base that is produced by the deamination of amino acids. It can react with H+ ions to form ammonium ions (NH4+), which helps to maintain the pH of the body fluids. Ammonia is particularly important in buffering the pH of the urine, which can be quite acidic.