AEMCA Practice Exam

What is the normal ratio of carbonic acid to bicarbonate in the body?

1. 1:10

2. 1:15

3. 1:20

4. 1:25

The correct answer is: 1:20

The normal ratio of carbonic acid to bicarbonate in the human body is approximately 1:20. This ratio is crucial for maintaining acid-base balance within the body's physiological processes. Bicarbonate serves as a key buffer in the blood, helping to neutralize excess acids, while carbonic acid plays a role in the regulation of carbon dioxide levels through respiration. This 1:20 ratio reflects a healthy metabolic state where bicarbonate concentrations are significantly higher than carbonic acid, allowing for effective buffering of physiological pH levels. This is particularly important in maintaining homeostasis, as any significant deviation from this ratio can indicate respiratory or metabolic issues. Understanding this ratio is essential in fields such as medicine and physiology, as it has implications for respiratory function and electrolyte balance.