Buffer Solutions

Abstract

It is an experimental fact that solutions obtained by dissolving a weak acid and its conjugate base exhibit only a very weak pH change, and even no change at all when a strong acid or base is added to them, at least in certain concentration conditions. These solutions are called buffers. We also say that they have acidity and basicity ``in reserve.'' They are of considerable interest. It is sufficient to be convinced that the maintenance of a certain life form requires very narrow pH ranges. This must be related to the enzymatic systems, which actually can work only in very narrow pH regions.