The Question is from neet-zoology breathing-and-exchange-of-gases , and it was created by the author T SAILAJA

Question

Which of the following statements regarding the chloride shift in the respiratory system is INCORRECT?

T SAILAJA · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: D
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
	**Primary Concept**: Chloride Shift (Hamburger's Phenomenon)
	**Related Topics**: CO2 Transport, Blood Buffer Systems, Respiratory Physiology
	**Prerequisites**: Understanding of basic chemical equilibrium and ion transport across membranes.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
	We are evaluating the correctness of statements about the chloride shift.
**Method & Steps**:
	1. **Recall the purpose of the chloride shift**: It maintains electroneutrality in red blood cells as bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) are exchanged for chloride ions (Cl-).
		Reasoning:  When CO2 enters the red blood cell, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid (H2CO3), which dissociates into H+ and HCO3-.  HCO3- diffuses out of the red blood cell. To maintain electrical balance, Cl- ions move into the cell.
	2. **Analyze the effect on pH**: The influx of HCO3- into the plasma contributes to the buffering capacity of blood. Inside the red blood cell, H+ ions bind to hemoglobin, which acts as a buffer, minimizing the pH change. However, some H+ remains free, which *slightly* lowers the intracellular pH.
		Key Point: Though H+ is generated, the binding to hemoglobin prevents a significant drop in pH within the red blood cell. The statement 'results in a *decrease* in the pH' is misleading, implying a significant drop, which isn't the case.
	3. **Consider the location of the chloride shift**: It primarily occurs in the systemic capillaries (tissues) where CO2 is being picked up, and in the pulmonary capillaries (lungs) where CO2 is being released.
		Result: The statement that the chloride shift 'results in a decrease in the pH of the red blood cell' is incorrect because it implies a significant pH drop, which is mitigated by hemoglobin's buffering capacity. 
## OPTION ANALYSIS
[A] ✓: 'Chloride ions move into the red blood cell as bicarbonate ions move out.' This is a correct description of the chloride shift.  
[B] ✓: 'It occurs in systemic capillaries.' This is correct.  The chloride shift occurs in both systemic and pulmonary capillaries.
[C] ✓: 'It is essential for maintaining electrical neutrality during CO2 transport.' This is the primary function of the chloride shift.
[D] :x: 'It results in a decrease in the pH of the red blood cell.' While there's a slight decrease in pH, the wording suggests a significant drop, which is incorrect due to the buffering action of hemoglobin. 
## LEARNING AIDS
	**Common Mistakes**:
		1. Confusing the direction of ion movement: Remember, chloride *in*, bicarbonate *out*.
		2. Oversimplifying the pH change:  Recognize the role of hemoglobin in buffering the H+.
	**Quick Tips**:
		1. Remember the 'Hamburger' phenomenon as a synonym for the chloride shift.
		2. Visualize the exchange of ions across the red blood cell membrane to maintain balance.

T SAILAJA · Answer

Chloride ions move into the red blood cell as bicarbonate ions move out.

T SAILAJA · Answer

It occurs in systemic capillaries.

T SAILAJA · Answer

It is essential for maintaining electrical neutrality during CO2 transport.

T SAILAJA · Answer

The correct Option is "It results in a decrease in the pH of the red blood cell"

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