AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -A buffer is a chemical agent that helps keep the pH of a solution approximately constant, even when acids or bases are added. Buffering is vital in living systems because it allows them to maintain homeostasis, or a relatively consistent internal environment.

Detailed explanation-2: -Buffers are a method in which many multicellular organisms maintain homeostasis because buffers prevent rapid changes in pH. For example, humans have a buffer in our blood which maintains our blood at a pH of 7.4.

Detailed explanation-3: -A buffer system consists of two components, one that acts on its counterpart. In acid-base homeostasis, almost all physiological processes in the body occur as a result of a buffer that allows a solution to tolerate pH changes. Buffers can be used beyond the concept of hydrogen ion donors or acceptors.

Detailed explanation-4: -To maintain homeostasis of body fluid pH, various buffering systems are utilized in addition to proton excretion from the cytosol to the extracellular space and ultimately outside of the body.