Give examples of the functions of blood in the animal body and explain how the animal body defends itself by against changes in H+ion concentration?

1 answer

Functions of blood in the animal body include:

1. Transport of oxygen: Blood carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body, where it is used in cellular respiration to produce energy.

2. Transport of nutrients: Blood carries nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids from the digestive system to the cells where they are needed for growth, repair, and energy production.

3. Removal of waste products: Blood carries waste products such as carbon dioxide and urea to the lungs and kidneys where they can be excreted from the body.

4. Regulation of temperature: Blood helps to regulate body temperature by distributing heat throughout the body and facilitating heat exchange with the external environment.

5. Immune response: Blood contains white blood cells that help to defend the body against pathogens and foreign invaders.

The animal body defends itself against changes in H+ ion concentration through a process called acid-base balance. This is achieved through several mechanisms, including:

1. Buffer systems: Blood contains chemical buffers that can bind excess H+ ions to help maintain a stable pH.

2. Respiratory system: The lungs can increase or decrease the rate of breathing to adjust the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood, which helps to regulate H+ ion concentration.

3. Renal system: The kidneys can excrete or retain H+ ions in the urine to help maintain acid-base balance.

4. Hormonal regulation: The body can release hormones such as aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone to help regulate the amount of H+ ions in the blood.

Overall, these mechanisms work together to maintain a stable pH and prevent drastic changes in H+ ion concentration, which is essential for proper functioning of the body's cells and organs.