A buffer is essentially a weak acid + its conjugate
for example
Acetic Acid, let it be HA where H+ is the prton and A- is the acetate ion
then
HA <--> H+ and A- in solution
if we add NaA (sodium acetate) then we will have
NaA ---> Na+ and A-
there is common ion effect, which is the conjugate "A-"
as we add acid; we form more HA
as we add base, we form more A-
therefore, the equilibrium is shifted depending on which side
note that buffers have certain capacity until pH changes drastically
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