Question

(a.) Equilibrium reaction equations are denoted by a double headed arrow separating the reactants from the products. What does the double headed arrow indicate about the directionality of the reaction? (1 pt.)

(b.) Write the balanced chemical equation for the equilibrium reaction that occurs from ionization of carbonic acid in water to produce two aqueous products. (6 pts.)

(c.) Label the conjugate acid/base pairs in the equation above. (2 pts.)

(d.) Which species in this buffer system helps to maintain blood plasma pH by consuming excess hydroxide ions? (1 pt.)

e.) Metabolism of food by our cells produces CO2. When CO2 mixes with H2O it forms H2CO3. A person having a panic attack begins to hyperventilate, depleting the concentration of CO2 in their lungs. What will happen to this persons blood plasma pH if their breathing is not corrected? Would the blood plasma become more acidic or more basic? (2 pts.)

Answer 1

A) direction of equilibrium is very important to determine the extent of reaction. if the forward Arrow is long as it is in case of I, implies product is favoured .

while if reverse arrow is long that means reactant is favoured.

D) H+ ions reacts with excess Hydroxide ions to form water molecules. Thus, pH of the biological system is maintained.

E) when CO2 concentration depletes, carbonic acid formed will also decrease. Thus, hydronium Ion concentration in the biological system will also decrease.

this results in increase in pH.  

Does blood plasma will become more basic.