buffer

In computing, a part of the memory used to store data temporarily while it is waiting to be used. For example, a program might store data in a printer buffer until the printer is ready to print it.

buffer

In chemistry, mixture of compounds chosen to maintain a steady pH. The commonest buffers consist of a mixture of a weak organic acid and one of its salts or a mixture of acid salts of phosphoric acid. The addition of either an acid or a base causes a shift in the chemical equilibrium, thus keeping the pH change to a minimum.

Each buffer system works only in a narrow pH range, so it is important to choose the right one for a given task. For neutral pH, (around pH 7.0), a mixture of the phosphates Na2HPO4 and NaH2PO4 would be suitable.