In a healthy adult, what is the normal arterial blood pH range?

• A. 7.60–7.70
• B. 7.35–7.45
• C. 6.80–6.90
• D. 7.00–7.10

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that arterial blood pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the blood, which is tightly regulated in the body to maintain homeostasis.
2. Recall that the normal pH range for arterial blood in a healthy adult is slightly alkaline, meaning it is just above 7.0 on the pH scale.
3. Recognize that values significantly outside the normal range indicate acid-base imbalances, such as acidosis (pH below normal) or alkalosis (pH above normal).
4. Identify the typical normal arterial blood pH range as between 7.35 and 7.45, which reflects the body's effective buffering systems and respiratory and renal regulation.
5. Compare the given options to this known normal range and select the one that falls within 7.35 to 7.45 as the correct answer.