In: Biology
. Which buffer system is more optimal for regulating pH in the body [H2PO4- and HPO42- ] or [H2CO3 and HCO3-]? Why?
Answer is H2CO3 and HCO3-
Buffers are a type of solution that can resist change of pH in a medium caused by addition of acid or base. Buffers are able to neutralise added acids and base. Buffers makes the pH of medium stable. Buffers absorb excess H+ and OH- ions in system and thereby making it more pH stable.
pH in the blood to be maintained for well being of human. Buffer system in human consist of carbonic acid (H2CO3) , bicarbonate ion (HCO3-), and carbon dioxide (CO2).
When free hydrogen ions are present in blood ,bicarbonate binds with H+ and form carbonic acid. Thu free H+ ions are removed and pH is maintained. Excess H2CO3 can also converted to CO2 and exhaled through lungs. This also helps to avoid presence of too many H+ ions in the blood which cause reduction in pH.
When excess OH- are present in blood , carbonic acid binds to it to form bicarbonate which lowers the pH. Buffer system is needed for maintaing blood pH level.