acids, bases and buffers

Question 1

definition of an acid

Answer 1

molecule/ion that gives up protons in solution

Question 2

definition of a base

Answer 2

molecule/ion that acquires protons in solution

Question 3

describe the function of carbonic acid in the body

Answer 3

formed when CO2 dissolves in blood tissue fluids, it acts as a buffer at physiological pH

Question 4

describe how a low pH in the mouth leads to solubilisation of the enamel

Answer 4

increase in hydrogen ion concentration causes equilibrium to shift right, icreasing solubilisation of calcium phophate

Question 5

what is tooth erosion

Answer 5

the direct effect of acids in the diet on our teeth

Question 6

what is a chelating agent and how does it increase solubilisation of the enamel

Answer 6

chelating agents are found within many soft/fruity drinks, they bind to cations (i.e calcium ions) meaning that calcium ions can no longer counteract calcium solubilisation

Question 7

name the main buffer in saliva and how it is formed

Answer 7

bicarbonate in saliva comes from the action of carbonic anhydrase, an enzyme in the salivary glands that form carbonic acid