pH Regulation
pH regulation refers to the process of maintaining the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, typically measured on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, while values below 7 indicate acidity and values above 7 indicate alkalinity. In biological systems, such as the human body, pH regulation is crucial for proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Various mechanisms contribute to pH regulation, including buffers, which are substances that can absorb excess hydrogen ions (H+) or hydroxide ions (OH-). The kidneys and lungs also play significant roles in maintaining pH balance by excreting acids or bases and regulating carbon dioxide levels in the blood.