acid-base equilibrium
- noun
- /ˈæsɪd-beɪs ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm/
- Specialized
:
equilibrio ácido-base
- The body maintains a stable acid-base equilibrium.
Examples
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The kidneys play a key role in regulating acid-base equilibrium in the body.
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Doctors monitor acid-base equilibrium closely in patients with respiratory disorders.
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Disturbances in acid-base equilibrium can lead to serious health problems.
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Why is acid-base equilibrium important for health?
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Maintaining a proper acid-base equilibrium is crucial for our body's overall health.
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Disruptions in acid-base equilibrium can lead to serious health issues such as acidosis or alkalosis.
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The body regulates acid-base equilibrium through various mechanisms, including breathing and kidney function.
Synonyms
The amount of acids and bases in the body that keeps fluids at the right pH
How Acidic
Surface Forms
Morphology
acid-base + equilibrium
The noun is compositionally built from 'acid' + 'base' and 'equilibrium' meaning a stable balance; a learner who knows these constituent meanings can directly infer a balance between acids and bases. This compound pattern (e.g. Spanish/French equivalents) is cross-linguistically common and follows regular English formation, so it is immediately comprehensible to a B1 learner.
Etymology
The phrase acid-base equilibrium shows a simple image: imagine a scale with acid on one side and base on the other that must stay even. So, it means the body's 'balance' between acids and bases, and if the scale tips, health problems can happen.