[Campbell Biology P.100] Why are changes in the concentrations of H+ and OH- in living organ... | Practice Question

Why are changes in the concentrations of H+ and OH- in living organisms considered important, according to the text?

  • A: Because H+ and OH- are stable molecules that help maintain cellular pH balance.
  • B: Because even slight shifts can drastically affect a cell's proteins and other complex molecules.
  • C: Because they are the primary components of the pH scale, but their direct impact on cell molecules is minimal.
  • D: Because biologists primarily use the pH scale to describe how basic a solution is, not how acidic.

Explanation

The text explains: 'H+ and OH- are very reactive. Changes in their concentrations can drastically affect a cell's proteins and other complex molecules.' This highlights the crucial importance of maintaining the balance of these ions for living organisms.