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Why is carbon dioxide removed from cells? (A) To decrease osmosis (B) To allow oxygen to replace it (C) To prevent an increase in blood pH (D) To prevent cells from becoming acidic - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 13 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 13
Why is carbon dioxide removed from cells? (A) To decrease osmosis (B) To allow oxygen to replace it (C) To prevent an increase in blood pH (D) To prevent cells from... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Why is carbon dioxide removed from cells? (A) To decrease osmosis (B) To allow oxygen to replace it (C) To prevent an increase in blood pH (D) To prevent cells from becoming acidic - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 13 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
To prevent cells from becoming acidic
Answer
Carbon dioxide is removed from cells primarily to prevent them from becoming acidic. When carbon dioxide (CO₂) accumulates in cells, it can lead to the formation of carbonic acid when it reacts with water, which lowers the pH and can disrupt cellular processes. Maintaining a stable pH is crucial for enzyme activity and overall metabolic processes. Thus, the removal of carbon dioxide helps maintain homeostasis within the cells.