Large values of Ka translate to lower values of pKa. This is, in fact, true ONLY when HA is allowed to dissociate in pure water. An acidic buffer contains a weak acid (HA) and its conjugate base (A-), an alkali buffer the opposite. As mentioned above, buffers have a major role in stabilizing the pH of living systems. WebSo the idea of buffer capacity is really significantly related to the amount of acid or base that a buffer can resist. 1. If a base and its conjugate acid are used to make the buffer, the pH can be modified using a strong acid, like HCl. A first buffer (commonly, pH=7.0) is used to make major adjustments; then, a second buffer (pH=4.0) is used to make fine adjustments. A buffer is a solution that can resist pH change upon the addition of an acidic or basic If the pH is more than one unit above the pKa for the group, the proton is off. The reverse happens if The organisms may not be able to develop or reproduce in these conditions. are buffers important to living things Their surroundings must also maintain a near-constant temperature and pH level. 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