Question

What are the three major buffer systems of the body and how do they work?

Answer 1

Buffer system:

1. A buffer is a solution that can withstand changes in pH.
2. It is caused by the addition of acidic or basic components.
3. Buffer solutions are broadly classified into two types:
4. acidic buffer solutions and alkaline buffer solutions.

Carbonic acid bicarbonate buffer system:

1. The carbonic acid bicarbonate buffer system is made up of carbonic acid.
2. They are weak acids, and their conjugate base is bicarbonate anion.

Phosphate buffer system:

1. Although it is not necessary as an extracellular fluid buffer.
2. It is essential in buffering renal tubular fluid and intracellular fluids.
3. When a strong base, such as $\mathrm{NaOH}$, is added to the buffer system.
4. The ${\mathrm{OH}}^{-}$ is buffered by the ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{PO}}_4$ to form more ${\mathrm{HPO}}_4+{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}$.

Protein buffer system:

1. All proteins have the ability to act as buffers.
2. Proteins are made up of amino acids.
3. It contains both positively and negatively charged amino groups and carboxyl groups.
4. These molecules' charged regions can bind hydrogen and hydroxyl ions.
5. Thus act as buffers.