the power of a substance in solution to absorb acid or alkali without change in pH; this is highest at a pH value equal to the pKa value of the acid of the buffer pair. See also: buffer capacity. Synonym(s): buffer index
buff·er val·ue
(bŭf'ĕr val'yū) The power of a substance in solution to absorb acid or alkali without change in pH; this is highest at a pH value equal to the pKa value of the acid of the buffer pair.