What is the function of the acid-base buffer system in the body?

The function of the acid-base buffer system in the body is to maintain a stable pH. This is crucial for various physiological processes because enzymes and metabolic activities are sensitive to changes in pH. The body employs buffers, such as bicarbonate, phosphate, and proteins, to neutralize excess acids or bases, thereby preventing drastic fluctuations in pH levels that could disrupt homeostasis. By doing so, the buffer system plays a key role in ensuring that the blood and other bodily fluids are maintained at an optimal pH, which is typically around 7.4 for human blood. This stability is vital for normal cellular functions and overall health.

While other options relate to bodily functions, they do not specifically address the crucial role of the acid-base buffer system in pH regulation. For instance, the digestion process, respiratory rate, and hormone production are influenced by various factors and systems but are not directly managed by the buffer system.