Explanation:
The bicarbonate buffering system comprises weak carbonic acid and bicarbonate ions. Its function is to regulate the pH of the blood. When any acidic substance enters the blood, hydrogen ions are neutralized by the formation of carbonic acid and water. Given that carbonic acid is already part of the buffer system, the hydrogen ions are removed without altering the pH.
A decrease in breathing rate can cause acidosis when carbon dioxide accumulates in the blood. This problem can occur in obstructive and restrictive respiratory disorders or as a result of muscle weakness and poor respiratory drive. In contrast, respiratory alkalosis happens following too fast or very deep breathing that lowers the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood.