Applications of buffer solution

Buffer solution finds extensive applications in a variety of fields. Some of its applications are given.

i. In biochemical system : pH of blood in our body is maintained at 7.36 - 7.42 due to $(\mathrm{HCO_3^{-}} + \mathrm{H_2CO_3})$ buffer. A mere change of 0.2 pH units can cause death. The saline solution used for intravenous injection must contain a buffer system to maintain the proper pH of the blood.

ii. Agriculture : The soils get buffered due to presence of salts such as carbonate, bicarbonate, phosphates and organic acids. The choice of fertilizers depends upon pH of soil.

iii. Industry : Buffers play an important role in paper, dye, ink, paint and drug industries.

iv. Medicine : Penicillin preparations are stabilized by addition of sodium citrate as buffer. When citric acid is added to milk of magnesia ($\mathrm{Mg(OH)_2}$), magnesium citrate is formed, which is a buffer. …