According to the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, the blood pH will rise (alkalemia) under which of the following conditions?

1. The buffer capacity increases.
2. The volatile acid (CO2) increases.
3. The volatile acid (CO2) decreases.
4. The buffer capacity decreases.
a. 1 only
b. 3 only
c. 1 and 3 only
d. 2 and 4 only

ANS: C
An increase in [HCO3–] or a decrease in PCO2 will raise the pH, leading to alkalemia.