Chapter 2 Flashcards
Define electrolyte
substances that release ions in water. When they dissolve the - & + ends of water molecules cause ions to seperate and interact with water molecules instead of each other
Define Acids
are electrolytes that release hydrogen ions in water
Define bases
are electrolytes that release ions that bond with hydrogen ions
Define buffers
Chemicals which resist pH changes. They combine with hydrogen ions when they are excessive and contribute hydrogen ions when ions are reduced
What is pH a measure of?
Hydrogen ion concentration
What does pH range from?
0-14
What is the pH of water?
7
A pH of 7 is also known as
neutral
For a solution to be neutral what must it contain?
an equal number of hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions
What is the pH of blood?
7.35-7.45
Acidosis is caused by a blood pH lower than …?
7.35
If pH falls below 7, what can occur?
coma
Name the two causes of acidosis
metabolic & respiratory
How/why does metabolic acidosis occur?
kidneys are unable to remove ketone bodies
How/why does respiratory acidosis occur?
high CO2 in blood
Patients suffering which conditions are predisposed to respiratory acidosis?
COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis
Alkalosis is caused by a pH greater than …?
7.45
If pH rises above 7.8 what can happen?
uncontrollable skeletal muscle contractions
uncontrollable skeletal muscle contractions can be caused by a pH…
over 7.8
coma can be caused by a pH…
lower than 7
What are the types of alkalosis?
metabolic & respiratory
What causes metabolic alkalosis?
elevations of tissue pH as a result of decreased hydrogen ions or increase in bicarbonate concentrations
What causes respiratory alkalosis?
increase in RR elevates pH.
Patients suffering which conditions are predisposed to respiratory alkalosis?
pneumonia, stroke, fever, meningitis, pregnancy
Define enzymes
In the body enzymes promote chemical reactions by acting as catalysts to accelerate these reactions without themselves being permanently changed or consumed.
What are enzymes made from?
Some enzymes are only made of protein, whereas others have a protein portion (apoenzyme) and a cofactor. Most organic cofactors are derived from B complex vitamins and are known as coenzymes.
Discuss ATP
ATP pairs with catabolized glucose to power the body. ATP is the main molecule in cells that transfer energy + provides a type of energy that all body cells can use immediately.
What is apoenzyme?
the protein portion of an enzyme
What is a cofactor?
Most organic cofactors are derived from B complex vitamins and are known as co-enzymes.
