What effect would a CO2 build up in the blood have on the body?
Firstly, describe the series of reactions that CO2 goes through when in the blood
1) CO2 reacts wih water in the blood to form carbonic acid H2CO3
2) H2CO3 dissociates to form CO3- and H+
Secondly, describe the effect that the increased H+ levels will have on the body
1) Increase in protons (H+) will cause a drop in pH/increase in acidity of the blood
2) Decreased pH reduces enzyme action as protons disrupt the 3D structure of proteins
3) Other proteins may lose their structure and become dysfunctional
Thirdly, apply some of your own knowledge as to what effect this would have directly on a person. As CO2 is excreted by breathing, hyperventilation is likely to be a common symptom. If the condition worsens, coma and death could occur.
MP
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