Respiratory acidosis doesn't make sense?

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In respiratory acidosis, slow breathing leads to carbon dioxide retention, shifting the equilibrium of the reaction to the right. This process increases both H+ and HCO3- concentrations. However, the rise in H+ concentration causes a decrease in pH, making the medium more acidic rather than basic. The discussion emphasizes that respiratory acidosis does not raise pH, contradicting the initial assumption. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for accurately interpreting acid-base balance in the body.
sameeralord
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Hello everyone,

C02 + H20 <---> H+ + HCO3-

Now in respiratory acidosis. You breathe slowly retaining more carbon dioxide. Ok this would shift the reaction to the right but how does it raise the PH. HCO3- also raised the same amount. Thank you :smile:
 
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It doesn't raise the pH. Remember that increasing the pH means that the medium has become more basic.
pH will go down with increased H+ concentration.
 
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