What does 'pH' refer to in medical terms?

In medical terminology, 'pH' specifically refers to the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, which indicates how acidic or basic that solution is. It is crucial in understanding various physiological processes in the body, as the pH levels can affect enzyme function, metabolic processes, and overall cellular function. For example, human blood typically has a pH range of 7.35 to 7.45, which is essential for maintaining homeostasis. A deviation outside of this range can lead to conditions such as acidosis or alkalosis, impacting numerous bodily functions. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the fundamental role of hydrogen ion concentration in assessing and understanding bodily conditions.