Buffers A) are strong acids or bases. B) keep the pH within normal limits. C) release large amounts of hydrogen ions (H⁺). D) will only lower the pH. E) will only increase the pH.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Buffers are solutions that resist changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added. They contain a weak acid and its corresponding conjugate base (or a weak base and its corresponding conjugate acid) which can absorb any added H+ or OH- ions to maintain the pH within normal limits. Buffers are not strong acids or bases and do not release large amounts of hydrogen ions. They can increase or decrease the pH depending on the initial pH and the ratios of the weak acid and its conjugate base in the buffer solution.