Question

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

Answer 1

See this old answer.

`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.