Give examples of the functions of blood in the animal body and explain how the animal body defends itself by against in H+ion concentration
Functions of blood in the animal body:
1. Transportation: Blood carries oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and carries carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs for exhalation. It also transports nutrients, hormones, waste products, and heat throughout the body.
2. Protection: Blood contains white blood cells (leukocytes) that play a vital role in the immune response. They help defend the body against pathogens, foreign substances, and cancer cells. Platelets in the blood also aid in blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding in case of injury.
3. Regulation: Blood helps regulate body temperature by absorbing and distributing heat throughout the body. It also helps maintain electrolyte balance, pH balance, and adequate fluid volume in the body.
Defense against H+ ion concentration:
The body has several mechanisms to defend itself against changes in H+ ion concentration, also known as pH imbalance. Some of these mechanisms include:
1. Buffer Systems: Blood contains chemical buffer systems that help maintain the pH of body fluids within a narrow range. These buffer systems minimize pH changes by absorbing or releasing H+ ions as needed.
2. Respiratory Regulation: The respiratory system plays a vital role in controlling the pH balance. When there is an increase in H+ ion concentration, the respiratory system increases the rate and depth of breathing to eliminate excess carbon dioxide, which helps reduce H+ ion concentration and restore pH balance.
3. Renal Regulation: The kidneys play a significant role in regulating pH by excreting excess H+ ions in the urine. They also reabsorb and conserve bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) to help buffer excess acids and maintain proper pH balance.
These defense mechanisms work together to maintain the normal pH range of the body, primarily in the blood, known as acid-base homeostasis.