Final answer:
Blood buffers work by preventing drastic changes in blood pH by absorbing excess H+ or OH- ions. The carbonic acid/bicarbonate buffer system is a key example that helps maintain the pH within the narrow range crucial for bodily functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Do Blood Buffers Function? Blood buffers primarily function to prevent significant changes in the pH level of the blood. This is critical because proper physiological functioning relies on maintaining a narrow pH range. The content loaded by the buffering systems helps blood to remain stable against pH fluctuations that could occur due to dietary intake or metabolic processes. One major blood buffer system is based on carbonic acid (H₂CO₃) and the bicarbonate ion (HCO₃). This system operates efficiently by absorbing excess hydrogen ions (H+) to form more carbonic acid or hydroxyl ions (OH-) to create more bicarbonate ions, which keeps the pH level stable. The presence of these buffers means that, for example, if stomach acid enters the bloodstream, there would only be a minimal pH change, thus protecting the body's delicate systems. The range of blood pH considered healthy is about 7.35 to 7.45. Maintaining a pH within this range is essential for the structural integrity and function of proteins in the body. Significant departures from this range can lead to severe medical conditions and even death.