Which physiological process does the body use to correct metabolic acidosis?

• A. Increased urine output
• B. Increased respiratory rate
• C. Decreased insulin secretion
• D. Increased gastric acid secretion

Answer: (B)

The body utilizes an increased respiratory rate as a compensatory mechanism to correct metabolic acidosis. When the blood becomes too acidic, the body responds by attempting to eliminate excess carbon dioxide (CO2) through increased ventilation. This is based on the principle that CO2, when dissolved in blood, forms carbonic acid, which can contribute to decreased pH levels and thus increased acidity. By breathing more rapidly, the body reduces the concentration of CO2 in the bloodstream, leading to a decreased production of carbonic acid, which helps to raise the blood pH back toward normal levels.

This respiratory compensation is a quick process and can occur within minutes as the body recognizes a disturbance in acid-base balance, allowing it to address the immediate effects of metabolic acidosis until other compensatory mechanisms, such as renal adjustments in bicarbonate reabsorption, can take place. The other choices do not play a direct role in correcting metabolic acidosis in the same way respiratory rate does.