What do buffers do and why are they important in biological systems?

1 Answer
anor277
Jun 12, 2016

See this [old answer.](https://socratic.org/questions/how-do-buffers-maintain-ph)

#pH=pK_a+log_10{[[A^-]]/[[HA]]}#

Explanation:

AS the equation indicates, the #pH# of a buffered solution remains tolerably close to the #pK_a# of the acid. Biological systems are extensively buffered as a means to prevent gross changes in solution #pH# (look at the actions of digestive fluid, or the #CO_2#, #HCO_3^-# buffer in blood.)

In biological terms, buffer help maintain homeostasis, stability in the face of change.

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