Respiratory acidosis doesn't make sense?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the biochemical process of respiratory acidosis, specifically the equilibrium reaction involving carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), hydrogen ions (H+), and bicarbonate (HCO3-). Participants clarify that in respiratory acidosis, the retention of CO2 leads to an increase in H+ concentration, which lowers pH, contradicting the notion that pH can rise under these conditions. The consensus is that while HCO3- levels may increase, the overall effect of increased H+ concentration results in a decreased pH, making the medium more acidic.

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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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