Salts, pH, and Buffers

Salts ionic compounds that dissolve in water and act as electrolytes substances, all ions, that when dissolved in liquid enable the liquid to conduct electricity ex: calcium phosphate salts - hardness of bones and teeth responsible for nerve transmissions some salts – coenzymes

are electrolytes that are covalently bonded. Acids and Bases are electrolytes that are covalently bonded.

Acids: taste sour release hydrogen ions (H+) proton donors its the concentration of protons that determines degree of acidity ex: stomach acid HCl → H+ + Cl- proton + anion In body- Gastric juice, uric acid, vitamin C, amino acids, nucleic acids, lactic acid, fatty acids, vaginal fluid

Bases: taste bitter feel slippery proton acceptors release hydroxyl ions (OH-) Ex.- Common- Tums, baking soda, egg whites, sea water, Draino, bleach, oven cleaner In body- blood, semen

pH Scale pH 7 = neutral pH below 7 = acidic pH above 7 = basic Measures relative concentration of hydrogen ions pH 7 = neutral pH below 7 = acidic pH above 7 = basic

Buffers proteins and other types of molecules that resist large changes in body fluid pH Chemicals that can regulate pH change

Review List the characteristics of organic molecules. Name several examples of inorganic molecules that are essential to human life. List the 5 reasons why water is important. What is the role of water in a dehydration synthesis reaction? What is the role of water in a hydrolysis reaction? What are salts? Give an example in humans of an acid. Of a base. Give an example in humans of a base. What does pH measure? What is the pH of blood? Water? Why is it important to maintain a normal blood pH? Describe the role of buffers.