Human blood must remain within a very narrow pH range in order for biochemical pathways to proceed normally. Typically, the pH of human blood ranges from 7.35-7.45. The mechanism
that regulates pH of the blood is referred to as a buffer, which consists of a weak acid and its
conjugate base both in significant concentration. Major components of the buffering system in
the blood are the hydrogen carbonate ion (HCO3") and the carbonate ion (CO;2-)
A biochemist wishes to produce solution mimicking the pH of human blood using a solution of sodium
sulfate. If the pH of the solution needs to be 7.45, what initial concentration of sulfate (SO 2) should be
prepared?