What condition is defined by a pH level lower than 7.35?

A pH level lower than 7.35 indicates acidosis, which is a condition where the blood has an excess of hydrogen ions, resulting in a decrease in pH. The normal physiological range for blood pH is typically between 7.35 and 7.45. When the pH falls below this threshold, it signifies that the body's acid-base balance is disrupted, leading to acidosis.

Acidosis can be caused by various factors, including respiratory issues, metabolic conditions, or renal dysfunction. In respiratory acidosis, for example, carbon dioxide (CO2) is retained due to inadequate ventilation, leading to an accumulation of carbonic acid in the blood. In metabolic acidosis, conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis or kidney failure can occur, resulting in an accumulation of acids or a loss of bicarbonate.

The other mentioned conditions either do not pertain to a specific pH range or indicate different physiological states. Alkalosis signifies a pH level above 7.45. Respiratory failure can lead to variations in pH levels but does not inherently define a specific pH condition. Lastly, hyperventilation typically causes respiratory alkalosis due to a decrease in CO2 levels. Thus, a pH lower than