Acetic acid (CH3COOH) is a weak acid, and acetate ion (CH3COO-) is a weak base. Together, acetic acid and acetate ions form a conjugate acid-base pair. In solution, this conjugate acid-base pair act...
Because they help maintain homeostasis within an organism by keeping pH at a nearly constant value.
This is important because in humans, for example, a pH shift of about only about .4 units is fatal.
Bicarbonate can react with hydrogen ions to form carbonic acid, which combines with water to produce carbon dioxide and more water. The carbon dioxide is expired through the lungs thus helping...