Amino Acids and Proteins Flashcard

Front

What is diabetic ketoacidosis?

Back

A serious condition resulting from insulin deficiency leading to the accumulation of ketone bodies in the blood.

Front

What is a buffer in chemistry?

Back

A solution that resists changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added, typically consisting of a weak acid and its conjugate base.

Front

What is the role of a base in a chemical reaction?

Back

A base accepts protons (H+) during a chemical reaction.

Front

What causes increased osmolality in the body?

Back

Conditions such as hypercalcemia can lead to increased osmolality.

Front

What is metabolic alkalosis?

Back

A condition characterized by a higher than normal pH (> 7.45) in the blood due to an excess of bicarbonate or loss of acid.

Front

What is the significance of pH in biological systems?

Back

pH is crucial for enzyme activity, metabolic processes, and maintaining homeostasis in living organisms.

Front

What is the difference between a strong acid and a weak acid?

Back

A strong acid completely dissociates in solution, while a weak acid only partially dissociates.

Front

What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation?

Back

An equation that relates the pH of a solution to the pKa of the acid and the concentration of its conjugate base.

Front

What is the physiological role of bicarbonate in the body?

Back

Bicarbonate acts as a buffer to maintain pH balance in the blood and other bodily fluids.

Front

What is the effect of hyperventilation on blood pH?

Back

Hyperventilation decreases carbon dioxide levels, leading to respiratory alkalosis and an increase in blood pH.