Bufor

Bufor, in Polish, is a term used for several related ideas around temporary storage or energy absorption. In computing, a buffer refers to a region of memory or a storage area used to hold data while it is being moved between devices or software processes. Buffers help accommodate speed differences, reduce the number of I/O operations, and smooth data flow. Common forms include ring buffers for streaming data and disk or network buffers that cache data to improve throughput. Using buffering involves trade-offs between latency and reliability; larger buffers can smooth bursts but add delay.

In chemistry and biology, a buffer (bufor) is a solution that resists changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added. These systems typically combine a weak acid with its conjugate base (or a weak base with its conjugate acid) and are characterized by their pH and buffering capacity, which depends on concentration and the pKa value.

In mechanical engineering and railway contexts, a buffer is a device designed to absorb energy and dampen shocks. Such buffers may be hydraulic, pneumatic, or spring-based, and are installed at the ends of vehicles or machinery to reduce impact forces during coupling, ride, or operation.

In media playback and streaming, buffering refers to preloading data so that playback can continue smoothly despite network variability. This can involve adjusting buffering thresholds to balance startup time, memory usage, and playback continuity.