A buffer is most effective when the concentrations of salt and acid are equal: Corresponds to the pKa value of the buffer being closest to the desired pH value Has an effective range when 1 pH unit higher or lower than pKa This can be explained by the...
A substance which opposes change in pH when an acid or base is added by absorbing or releasing hydrogen ions Buffers can be of two types: Mixture of a weak acid with the salt of its conjugate base (most common in the body Mixture of a weak base with the salt of its...
Maintenance of pH is important for: Enzyme Function Ionic Gradients Ion Channel Function Becomes impaired outside narrow pH rangeWith extremes of pH enzymes may become denatured Affects the ionisation (charge) of moleculesMay alter their ability to cross cell...
1st Line 2nd Line 3rd Line Defence Buffer Systems Respiratory Regulation Renal & Hepatic Regulation Mechanism Extracellular buffer systems (primarily bicarbonate system) Intracellular buffer systems (primarily phosphate system) Alteration in alveolar ventilation...
Volatile Acids Defined as acids that can be converted in to gaseous form and thus eliminated via the lungsThe primary volatile acid created in the body is carbonic acid which is created by the reaction of carbon dioxide and water. Carbon dioxide is produced in...
