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🔬general biology i review

Buffers

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Buffers are substances that minimize changes in the pH of a solution by neutralizing added acids or bases. They play a crucial role in maintaining the stable pH necessary for biological processes.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Buffers typically consist of a weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid.
  2. The bicarbonate buffer system is one of the most important buffers in human blood, maintaining a pH around 7.4.
  3. Buffers work best when the pH is close to their pKa value, where they can effectively neutralize added acids or bases.
  4. In cellular environments, phosphate buffers help maintain intracellular pH stability.
  5. Buffer capacity refers to the amount of acid or base that a buffer can neutralize before significantly changing its pH.

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