what is a buffer

A buffer is a solution that can resist changes in pH upon the addition of an acidic or basic component/Acids_and_Bases/Buffers)/Acids_and_Bases/Buffers/Introduction_to_Buffers). It is composed of a weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid/Acids_and_Bases/Buffers/Introduction_to_Buffers). Buffers are important for processes and reactions that require specific and stable pH ranges, such as biological reactions and enzymes/Acids_and_Bases/Buffers). Buffer solutions have a working pH range and capacity that dictate how much acid or base can be neutralized before pH changes, and the amount by which it will change/Acids_and_Bases/Buffers)/Acids_and_Bases/Buffers/Introduction_to_Buffers). The buffer capacity is the amount of acid or base that can be added before the pH begins to change significantly/Acids_and_Bases/Buffers). Buffers are used in a wide variety of chemical applications, including fermentation processes, chemical analysis, and calibration of pH meters.