The bicarbonate buffer system is a crucial buffering mechanism in biological systems that helps maintain pH balance in the blood and other bodily fluids. It involves the equilibrium between carbonic acid (H2CO3) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3-), which can quickly neutralize excess acids or bases, thereby stabilizing pH levels. This system is essential for physiological processes, especially in the context of respiration and metabolism, as it plays a key role in maintaining homeostasis within the body.
congrats on reading the definition of bicarbonate buffer system. now let's actually learn it.