Bicarbonate, also known as hydrogen carbonate, HCO3 is made up of one hydrogen, one carbon, and 3 oxygen molecules. It has an overall molecular charge of negative one and is 61.01 daltons. It plays a crucial role in the pH buffering system of the human body. Carbon dioxide is converted into carbonic acid. Because of the instable nature of carbonic acid, it is often converted into bicarbonate. HCO3 keeps the body from experiencing rapid pH changes and thus helps to protect vital tissue and organs.