In lungs there is definite exchange of ions between RBC and plasma. Re...
Chloride shift is the movement of chloride ions from the plasma into red blood cells as a result of the transfer of carbon dioxide from tissues to the plasma, a process that serves to maintain blood pH. Bicarbonate and chloride ions are transported across the red blood cell membrane in opposite directions by the bicarbonate-chloride carrier protein.
In lungs there is definite exchange of ions between RBC and plasma. Re...
Explanation:
Exchange of Ions in Lungs:
- In the lungs, there is a definite exchange of ions between red blood cells (RBCs) and plasma.
Removal of CO2 from Blood:
- The removal of CO2 from the blood involves the process of chloride shift.
Influx of Cl^- into RBC:
- During the chloride shift, there is an influx of chloride ions (Cl^-) into the RBCs.
- This influx of chloride ions into RBCs helps in exchanging bicarbonate ions (HCO3^-) out of the RBCs in order to maintain charge balance.
- The bicarbonate ions are then transported back into the plasma where they combine with hydrogen ions to form carbonic acid, which eventually breaks down into CO2 and water.
Efflux of H+ ions from RBC:
- As a result of the chloride shift, there is an efflux of hydrogen ions (H+) from the RBCs into the plasma.
- This process helps in maintaining the pH balance in the blood by removing excess hydrogen ions.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'c) Influx of Cl^- into RBC', as it plays a crucial role in the removal of CO2 from the blood through the process of chloride shift in the lungs.