Answer :
CO₂ levels near letter F would be higher than 46mm Hg (D).
Here's the reasoning:
- Increased Metabolic Activity: The scenario describes tissue cells (letter D) undergoing an unusually high amount of metabolic activity. This implies a higher rate of cellular respiration.
- Cellular Respiration and CO₂ Production: Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose into usable energy (ATP). As a byproduct of cellular respiration, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is produced.
- Increased H⁺ Production: The scenario also mentions these cells producing more H⁺ (protons) than usual. This indicates a potential imbalance in the pH levels within the cells, likely becoming more acidic.
Connecting the Dots:
- To maintain a proper pH balance, the body has various buffering mechanisms. When CO₂ levels are high, carbonic acid (H₂CO₃) formation increases, which helps buffer excess H⁺ ions.
- Since the cells are already producing more H⁺ due to increased metabolic activity, the body will likely try to compensate by increasing CO₂ levels near those cells (letter F) to aid in buffering the additional H⁺ ions.
Therefore, due to the increased metabolic activity and H⁺ production, we can expect the CO₂ levels near letter F to be higher than the typical value of 46mmHg (D). The CO₂ increase helps the body's buffering system maintain a proper pH balance within the cells.
