Buffering Against pH Changes in Biological Systems Flashcards
1
Q
What is a buffer?
A
bicarbonate buffer system helping to maintain blood pH
2
Q
How does a buffer work?
A
By neutralizing added acids or bases. The weak acid in the buffer donates protons (H⁺) to neutralize added bases, and the conjugate base absorbs protons to neutralize added acids.
3
Q
What happens if the buffer capacity is exceeded?
A
pH of the solution will change significantly because the buffer can no longer neutralize additional acids or bases
4
Q
Give an example of a biological process that relies on buffering.
A
The regulation of blood pH through the bicarbonate buffer system
5
Q
What is the pKa of a buffer?
A
The pKa is the pH at which the buffer is most effective, meaning it can equally resist changes in pH when acid or base is added
