pH and buffers

define pH

hydrogen ion concentration

acid

substance that gives up a proton(hydrogen

base

substance that accepts a hydrogen

pH=

-log[H+]=log 1/[H+]

strong acids

completely dissociate in waterEx.sulfuric acid

weak acids

partially dissociate in waterEx. acetoacetic acid

Ka

dissociation constant of weak acids(conjugate base)(H+)/(acid)

pKa=

-logKa

pH range compatible with life

6.8-8

Acidosis

results in depression of CNS (disorientation and comas)

alkalosis

overexcitability of the peripheral and CNS (tingling sensation of nerves, twitching of muscles, spasms)

Consequences of H+ fluctuation

-Changes in excitability of nerve-influences enzyme activity-influences K+ levels-dental implication

K+ levels during acidosis and alkalosis

acidosis: less K+ is secretedalkalosis: more K+ is secreted

buffers

-mixture of undissociated acid and its conjugate base-helps resist changes in pH-works best when pH range is near is pKa

Henderson-Hasselbalch equation

pka=pH-log(A-/HA)

when [HA]=[A-]

pka=pH

ka

0

Buffer systems in human body

-bicarbonate (extracellular fluids)-hemoglobin (red blood cells)- phosphate ( buffers urine)-proteins

Salivary system employs 3 buffer system

-bicarbonate-phosphate-proteins

salvia pH

6-7.5anything below 5.5 results in harm to hard (enamel and dentin) and soft tissues