Question

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

Answer 1

Organic acids that are end products of metabolic reactions, protein catabolism, and other biologically active molecules are continually being produced in living organisms. Maintaining the pH in intra- and extracellular fluids is essential since it influences the biological activity of proteins, enzymes, hormones, the distribution of ions through membranes, etc... The way in which we can regulate the pH within of the limits compatible with life are: 1) physiological buffers and 2) the elimination of acids and bases by respiratory and renal compensation.

Answer 2

Explanation:

A buffer is a solution that can resist pH change upon the addition of an acidic or basic components. It is able to neutralize small amounts of added acid or base, thus maintaining the pH of the solution relatively stable. This is important for processes and/or reactions which require specific and stable pH ranges. Buffer solutions have a working pH range and capacity which dictate how much acid/base can be neutralized before pH changes, and the amount by which it will change.