Question

How can you identify a buffer in chemistry?

Answer 1

A solution whose $pH$ is not altered to any great extent by the addition of small quantities of either an acid $\left( {{H}^{+}}ions \right)$ or a base $\left( O{{H}^{-}}ions \right)$ is called buffer solution. It is able to neutralize small amounts of added acid or base, thus maintaining the $pH$ of the solution relatively stable.

Complete step by step answer:
Buffer solutions are also defined as solutions of reverse acidity or alkalinity which resists change of $pH$ upon the addition of a small amount of acid or alkali.
Buffer has a definite $pH$, $i.e,\,pH$ does not change on standing for long.
$pH$ does not change on dilution.
$pH$ can slightly change by the addition of a small quantity of an acid or a base.
Buffer solution can be obtained.
i. by mixing a weak acid with its salt with a strong base, e.q- $C{{H}_{3}}COOH+C{{H}_{3}}COONa$ (Acidic buffer)
ii. by mixing a weak base with its salt with a strong acid e.q- $N{{H}_{4}}OH+N{{H}_{4}}C\ell$ (Basic buffer)
A buffer is able to resist $pH$ change because the two components conjugate acid and conjugate base are both present in appreciable amounts and are able to neutralize small amounts of other acids and bases.

Note: Buffers are used to determine the $pH$ with the help of indicators, They are also used in industrial processes such a manufacture of paper, dyes, inks, paints, dregs, etc. Also used in preservation of various types of foods and fruits.
Buffers are important for processes and/ or reactions which require specific and stable $pH$ ranges- because it tends to maintain constant hydrogen ion concentration.