Final answer:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by increased carbon dioxide, resulting in a decreased pH of the blood and a lower-than-normal amount of bicarbonate, leading to a primary bicarbonate deficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metabolic acidosis is the result of an increased carbon dioxide level in the blood. This condition is characterized by a decreased pH of the blood and a low level of bicarbonate. The most common cause of metabolic acidosis is the presence of organic acids or excessive ketones in the blood, leading to a primary bicarbonate deficiency.
During metabolic acidosis, the blood becomes too acidic (pH below 7.35), and if compensation occurs, the body may respond by decreasing the pCO₂ as it attempts to reestablish the proper ratio of bicarbonate and carbonic acid/CO₂.