This document discusses acid-base balance and the mechanisms that regulate blood pH homeostasis. It begins by defining pH and explaining why blood pH is tightly regulated. It then describes the various sources of acids and bases in the body from metabolic processes. The key mechanisms that regulate blood pH include buffer systems, respiratory regulation, and renal regulation. Buffers act quickly, respiration provides short-term regulation, and the kidneys provide long-term regulation. Imbalances can occur if these regulatory mechanisms fail, leading to acidosis or alkalosis conditions.