Acid-base balance normalization (via bicarbonate buffer)

The bicarbonate buffer system is the primary extracellular buffer, essential for maintaining blood pH. It's a dynamic equilibrium of CO₂, H₂O, H₂CO₃, HCO₃⁻, and H⁺, regulated by the lungs (CO₂ removal) and kidneys (H⁺/bicarbonate excretion). Dysfunction leads to acidemia or alkalemia, requiring prompt correction.

Other names

Bicarbonate buffering systemAcid-base homeostasispH regulationCarbonic acid-bicarbonate buffer

The bicarbonate buffer system is the principal physiological mechanism for maintaining acid-base balance in the blood and other body fluids. It involves a dynamic equilibrium between carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻), and carbon dioxide (CO₂). This system acts to neutralize excess acids or bases, thereby stabilizing pH within a narrow range essential for normal metabolic function.