Quizlet Genitourinary System Related

Review Quizlet Genitourinary System related questions and content

The primary role of the phosphate buffer system is to?

  • A. buffer stomach acid
  • B. buffer carbonic acid formed by carbon dioxide
  • C. limit pH changes caused by metabolic and fixed acids
  • D. buffer the urine
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: limit pH changes caused by metabolic and fixed acids.
1. Phosphate buffer system consists of dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4-) and hydrogen phosphate (HPO4^2-) ions, which can donate or accept H+ ions to maintain a stable pH.
2. Metabolic and fixed acids produced in the body can lead to pH changes. The phosphate buffer system helps to prevent drastic changes in pH by neutralizing excess H+ ions.
3. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because the phosphate buffer system is not specifically designed to buffer stomach acid, carbonic acid formed by carbon dioxide, or buffer the urine.