AEMCA Practice Exam

Which system is responsible for controlling bicarbonate levels in the body?

1. Pulmonary system

2. Endocrine system

3. Renal system

4. Muscular system

The correct answer is: Renal system

The renal system is responsible for managing bicarbonate levels in the body primarily through its role in acid-base balance. The kidneys regulate bicarbonate by either reabsorbing it back into the bloodstream or excreting it into the urine, depending on the body's pH levels. When the body is too acidic, the kidneys can help by reabsorbing more bicarbonate or generating new bicarbonate ions to neutralize excess acids. Conversely, in conditions where the body is too alkaline, the kidneys can increase the excretion of bicarbonate. The pulmonary system does influence bicarbonate levels indirectly by regulating carbon dioxide elimination, which impacts the acid-base balance, but it does not control bicarbonate levels directly. The endocrine system plays a role in various regulatory processes but is not directly responsible for bicarbonate management. The muscular system is primarily involved in movement and does not play a role in the regulation of biochemical substances like bicarbonate. Thus, the renal system is the key player in maintaining appropriate bicarbonate concentrations in the body.