Question

Experiments performed with biological systems require a buffer that will not interfere with the stability and activities of the biological components. In 1966, Norman Good and his colleagues began a series of investigations that established criteria for new zwitterionic buffers that would be optimal for experimentation with biological systems. These criteria included_____________.
a. pKa between 6 and 8
b. highly water soluble
c. minimally permeable to biological membranes
d. minimal effects of salt concentration
e. minimal effect of temperature on pKa (? pKa/°C)

Answer 1

Answer:pKa between 6 and 8

b. highly water soluble

c. minimally permeable to biological membranes

d. minimal effects of salt concentration

Explanation:

Since most biological reactions occur at near neutral pH of 6-8, good buffers should have their pKa around this region. A good buffer must also be water soluble and not easily permeable to biological membranes to avoid to avoid accumulation of the buffer compound in cells. The buffer should also not be highly ionic to prevent issues due to salt effects.