Which body system is primarily responsible for compensation during acidosis?

The respiratory system is primarily responsible for compensation during acidosis because it plays a critical role in regulating blood pH through the control of carbon dioxide levels. When acidosis occurs, it often results from an excess of carbon dioxide in the blood (respiratory acidosis) or an accumulation of hydrogen ions (metabolic acidosis). In response to acidosis, the respiratory centers in the brain increase the rate and depth of breathing, which enhances the elimination of carbon dioxide from the body. This process helps to decrease the concentration of carbonic acid in the bloodstream, ultimately raising the pH back toward a more neutral level.

In contrast, while other body systems such as the renal and endocrine systems also contribute to acid-base balance over longer periods, they are not the primary immediate compensatory mechanisms during acute acidosis. The muscular system is not directly involved in pH balance, and the immune system primarily focuses on protecting the body against pathogens rather than regulating pH or acid-base status. Overall, the rapid response of the respiratory system makes it the key player in compensating for acidosis.