The Buffering of HCl by the H₂CO₃-NaHCO3 Buffer Pair Would

Question

The buffering of HCl by the H2CO3-NaHCO3 buffer pair would A) convert the strong HCl into the weaker H2CO3 B) cause a smaller increase of H⁺ ions in the blood C) decrease the amount of NaHCO3in the blood D) all of the above

Accepted Answer

The buffering of HCl by the H₂CO₃-NaHCO3 buffer pair would result in the conversion of the strong HCl into the weaker H₂CO₃, thus preventing a sudden decrease in pH. This would also cause a smaller increase in H⁺ ions in the blood, preventing acidosis. Additionally, the buffering process would use up some of the NaHCO3 in the blood, decreasing its amount. Hence, choice D is the best option.