Concept explainers
To write:
The importance of buffers to living organisms.
Introduction:
A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that can retain its individual characteristics and properties. A mixture with uniform composition throughout is known as a homogeneous mixture or a solution. A heterogeneous mixture is formed when the components of the two substances remain distinct
Explanation of Solution
The amount of hydrogen ions or hydroxide ions in a solution determines the strength of an acid or base. pH is the measure of concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution. Pure water is neutral and has a pH value of 7.0. Acidic solutions have more H+ and have pH values less than 7. Basic solutions have more OH- than H+ and have pH values higher than 7. Buffers are mixtures that react with acids and bases to keep the pH within a specific range by removing the excess H+ and OH- in the solution. The majority of biological processes carried out by cells occur between the pH 6.5-7.5. Buffering is important in living organisms in order to maintain a fairly constant internal environment or homeostasis by controlling the H+ levels.
Buffers are the mixtures that can react with acids and bases to keep the pH within a certain range and maintain homeostasis.
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