Buffers and finite buffering capacity
An acid–base pair can resist limited changes in solution pH.
Key knowledge
A solution containing suitable amounts of a weak acid and its conjugate base, or the corresponding weak-base pair, can resist pH changes from added acid or base. This response follows coupled acid–base equilibria and has finite capacity.
Conditions and scope
- Useful behaviour depends on both pair ratio and amounts, as well as the solvent and equilibrium constants.
- A buffer does not hold pH fixed under unlimited addition or remove activity effects.
Sources · 1
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Source buffer-pair examples and capacity discussion.
2026-10-10 · Checked equilibrium and finite-capacity scope; no preparation or clinical instructions.
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