Pufferfunktion

Pufferfunktion refers to a mechanism or substance that can absorb or release ions to maintain a relatively stable pH level in a solution. This process is crucial in many biological and chemical systems where fluctuations in acidity can have significant consequences. In essence, a buffer solution resists changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added. This stability is achieved through the presence of a weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid, in equilibrium.

The effectiveness of a buffer is quantified by its buffer capacity, which is the amount of acid or base it can neutralize before a significant pH change occurs. When an acid is added to a buffer solution, the conjugate base component reacts with the added hydrogen ions, forming the weak acid and thus minimizing the pH drop. Conversely, when a base is added, the weak acid component reacts with the hydroxide ions, forming water and the conjugate base, thereby preventing a substantial rise in pH. This buffering action is vital for maintaining homeostasis in living organisms, such as blood pH regulation, and is also employed in various industrial processes and laboratory experiments.