During CO₂ transport the majority of it is transported as bicarbonate ions. Which of the following is the correct reason?

${\mathrm{CO}}_2$ is mainly transported as bicarbonate ions due to carbonic anhydrase enzyme present both in RBC and plasma.

• The majority of carbon dioxide (CO₂) (70%) is transported in the bloodstream as bicarbonate ions (HCO₃^-). The primary reason for this is to maintain proper pH balance (acid-base homeostasis) in the body, preventing it from becoming too acidic. 
• Bicarbonate Buffer System: The bicarbonate buffering system is one of the major mechanisms for regulating the pH of the blood and maintaining it within a narrow and stable range. It involves the reversible conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into bicarbonate ions (HCO₃^-) and vice versa.
• Transport of CO₂: Carbon dioxide is produced as a waste product of cellular metabolism. To transport CO₂ from peripheral tissues to the lungs for elimination, it primarily combines with water (H2O) in red blood cells to form carbonic acid (H₂CO₃) through the enzyme carbonic anhydrase.
• Bicarbonate Formation: Carbonic acid (H2CO3) rapidly dissociates into bicarbonate ions (HCO₃^-) and hydrogen ions (H⁺). The bicarbonate ions are then transported in the bloodstream to the lungs.
• Reverse Reaction: In the lungs, the reverse reaction occurs. Bicarbonate ions and hydrogen ions combine to form carbonic acid, which is then converted back into CO2 and water. The CO2 is exhaled from the body during respiration.