ph balence Flashcards
Acid:
Definition: An acid is a substance that releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water.
Example: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach.
Characteristics:
Sour taste
Turns blue litmus paper red
Can be corrosive
Base:
Definition: A base is a substance that accepts hydrogen ions (H⁺) or releases hydroxide ions (OH⁻) when dissolved in water.
Example: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in soap.
Characteristics:
Bitter taste
Slippery feel
Turns red litmus paper blue
pH
Definition: pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It ranges from 0 to 14:
pH 7 = neutral (pure water)
pH < 7 = acidic
pH > 7 = basic (alkaline)
pH Scale: The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning each whole number change on the scale represents a tenfold change in the concentration of hydrogen ions.
pH of Blood
Normal pH of Blood: The pH of human blood is slightly alkaline, typically between 7.35 and 7.45.
If the blood pH falls below 7.35, it is considered acidic (acidosis).
If the blood pH rises above 7.45, it is considered alkaline (alkalosis).
Importance: Blood pH must be maintained within this narrow range for proper enzyme activity, cell function, and overall homeostasis. Extreme changes in blood pH can lead to serious health problems.
Four Categories of Molecules Carbohydrates
Structure: Made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (1:2:1 ratio).
Function: Provide energy, store energy (glycogen), and support cell structure.
Lipids
Structure: Fats, oils, phospholipids, and steroids; hydrophobic.
Function: Energy storage, form cell membranes, insulation, and hormone production.
Proteins
Structure: Made of amino acids.
Function: Enzymes, structural support, transport, immune defense, muscle contraction.
Nucleic Acids
Structure: DNA and RNA made of nucleotides.
Function: Store genetic info (DNA), synthesize proteins (RNA), and cell division.
