pH and Buffers

Front

What is a buffer?

Back

A buffer is a solution that can resist pH change when small amounts of acid or base are added.

Front

What might happen if buffers did not exist within the human body?

Back

Our blood and other bodily fluids might become too acidic or basic.

Front

What is the only substance with a neutral pH of 7?

Back

Water

Front

What does the pH scale measure?

Back

The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution.

Front

What is the range of the pH scale?

Back

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14.

Front

What is an acidic solution?

Back

An acidic solution has a pH less than 7.

Front

What is a basic (alkaline) solution?

Back

A basic solution has a pH greater than 7.

Front

What happens to pH when an acid is added to a buffer?

Back

The pH of a buffer solution changes only slightly when an acid is added.

Front

What happens to pH when a base is added to a buffer?

Back

The pH of a buffer solution changes only slightly when a base is added.

Front

Why are buffers important in biological systems?

Back

Buffers help maintain a stable pH in biological systems, which is crucial for proper functioning.