How does cellular respiration affect pH?

Question

Clara Addison · Accepted Answer

Cellular respiration increases the acidity of the pH of the environment.

One of the products of cellular respiration is Carbon Dioxide # CO_2# When carbon dioxide and water combine, carbonic acid is created. # CO_2 + H_2O == H_2 CO_3# Carbonic Acid # H_2CO_3# is an weak organic acid. Because carbonic acid is an acid, its pH is approximately 5, whereas water has a pH of approximately 7. Consequently, adding carbonic acid to the environment lowers pH and increases acidity. Because carbonated drinks rely on dissolved carbon dioxide to give them their fizz, the carbon dioxide in the "soda" will eventually turn into carbonic acid, meaning that all sodas are weak acids. If you put a tooth in a Coke, the soda's acid will dissolve the tooth entirely in a matter of days.

Samuel Albin · Answer

undefined Cellular respiration involves the breakdown of glucose and other organic molecules to produce energy in the form of ATP. During this process, carbon dioxide (CO2) is produced as a byproduct. CO2 can dissolve in water to form carbonic acid (H2CO3), which can decrease the pH of the surrounding environment. Therefore, cellular respiration can contribute to a decrease in pH (acidification) of the cellular environment or surrounding tissues.