A buffer helps maintain consistent pH readings in a solution. Natural buffers in the human body include carbonic acid (in the blood) and sodium bicarbonate (from the pancreas).
Bicarbonate Buffer
weak acid (H+ donor)
weak
base + proton
| H2CO3 |
Rises
in pH |
HCO3- + H+ |
If too acidic
strong acid + sodium bicarbonate (weak base)carbonic acid (weak acid) + sodium chloride (salt)
| HCL + NaHCO3 | |
H2CO3 + NaCl |
If too basic
strong base + carbonic acid (weak base) sodium bicarbonate (weak base) + water
| NaOH + H2CO3 | |
NaHCO3 + H2O |