Our cells produce carbon dioxide, it diffuses into the blood, where it is transported to the lungs for expiration. Some of the carbon dioxide is transported dissolved in the plasma. Some carbon dioxide is transported as carbaminohemoglobin. However, most carbon dioxide is transported as bicarbonate.

The majority of carbon dioxide produced by our body cells is transported to the lungs as bicarbonates. This process plays a crucial role in maintaining the acid-base balance in our body.

Transportation of Carbon Dioxide in the Body:
1. Production of Carbon Dioxide: During cellular respiration, our body cells produce carbon dioxide as a waste product. This process occurs in the mitochondria of the cells.

2. Conversion to Bicarbonate: Carbon dioxide diffuses into the red blood cells, where it combines with water to form carbonic acid (H2CO3) with the help of an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase. This reaction occurs rapidly and reversibly. Carbonic acid then dissociates into bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions (H+).

3. Transportation in the Blood: The majority of the bicarbonate ions formed are transported in the blood plasma. Bicarbonate ions are highly soluble and can be carried easily in the aqueous medium of the blood. They move from the red blood cells into the plasma, leading to the formation of chloride ions (Cl-) in the red blood cells to maintain electrical neutrality.

4. Exchange in the Lungs: As the blood reaches the lungs, the process is reversed. Bicarbonate ions diffuse back into the red blood cells, where they combine with hydrogen ions to form carbonic acid. Carbonic acid then breaks down into carbon dioxide and water. The carbon dioxide is then exhaled out of the lungs during expiration.

Significance of Bicarbonate Transport:
- Bicarbonate transport is essential for maintaining the acid-base balance in our body. It helps in preventing the accumulation of excess carbon dioxide, which could lead to respiratory acidosis.
- The rapid conversion of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate ions allows for efficient transportation of carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs.
- Bicarbonate ions are highly soluble in the blood plasma, enabling them to be readily transported without causing any issues or blockages in the circulatory system.

In conclusion, the majority of carbon dioxide produced by our body cells is transported to the lungs as bicarbonates. This process ensures the efficient removal of carbon dioxide waste from the body and plays a vital role in maintaining the acid-base balance.