glossary

acid-base balance

Definition acid-base balance

acid-base balance

acid-base balance the balance between the amount of carbonic acid and bicarbonate in the blod, which must be maintained at a constant ratio of 1:20 in order to keep the hydrogen ion concentration of the plasma at a constant value (pH 7.4). Any alteration in this ratio will disturb the acid-base balance of the blood and tissues and cause either *acidosis or *alkalosis. The lungs and kidneys play an important role in the regulation of the acid-base balance.