Which answer helps to explain why all living cells need ph buffers?

Question: Which answer helps to explain why all living cells need ph buffers?

Living cells need pH buffers because buffers help maintain a stable pH level in their environment. This stability is crucial for several reasons:

Enzyme Function: Many enzymes, which are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in cells, work optimally at specific pH levels. If the pH deviates too much, these enzymes can become less effective or even denature, meaning they lose their structure and function.

Cellular Metabolism: The chemical reactions that occur in cells, collectively known as metabolism, often produce byproducts that can change the pH. Buffers help neutralize these changes, ensuring that metabolic processes continue smoothly.

Protein Stability: Proteins, like enzymes, have specific pH ranges where they maintain their structure. Buffers help prevent the pH from drifting into ranges where proteins might unfold or aggregate.

Homeostasis: Cells need to maintain a stable internal environment, known as homeostasis. pH buffers are a key part of this process, helping to regulate the internal pH despite changes in the external environment.

So, pH buffers are essential for keeping the cellular environment stable, which allows enzymes and proteins to function properly, supports metabolism, and helps maintain overall cellular health.