What pH range do buffers typically maintain?

Buffers are solutions designed to resist significant changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added. They do this by neutralizing excess hydrogen ions (H⁺) or hydroxide ions (OH⁻) through chemical reactions.

The key characteristic of a buffer is its ability to maintain a specific pH range, typically within 1 pH unit of its pKa value, which is derived from the weak acid and its conjugate base that make up the buffer system. This means that buffers can be formulated to maintain a pH that is either acidic, neutral, or basic, depending on the components used. As a result, the correct answer reflects the broad utility of buffers beyond just one state of acidity or alkalinity, emphasizing the ability of buffers to target and stabilize a specific pH range that is necessary for various biological and chemical processes.

The ability to maintain a specific pH range makes buffers invaluable in many applications, including biological systems, pharmaceuticals, and laboratory experiments, ensuring optimal conditions for reactions and processes.