Which of the Following Anions Buffers H⁺

Question

Which of the following anions buffers H⁺? A) Ca2⁺ B) HCO3^- C) Na⁺ D) K⁺

Accepted Answer

HCO3- is the bicarbonate ion, which acts as a buffer system in the human body, helping to maintain stable pH levels. When the concentration of H+ ions increases, bicarbonate acts as a weak base, accepting the excess H+ ions and forming carbonic acid (H2CO3). This reaction helps to minimize changes in pH, as the carbonic acid can later release H+ ions to the solution, acting as a weak acid when pH is too high.