Final answer:
Acid-base balance, or pH balance, is crucial for proper physiological functioning. The pH scale measures the concentration of acids and bases in a solution, with buffers helping to maintain a stable pH range in body fluids.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acid-base balance, also known as pH balance, is an important aspect of maintaining proper physiological functioning in the body. The pH scale measures the concentration of acids and bases in a solution, with a pH of 7 being neutral, below 7 being acidic, and above 7 being basic. Buffers, which are chemical systems consisting of weak acids and their conjugate bases, help maintain a stable pH range in body fluids by absorbing excess hydrogen ions (in the case of acid) or releasing hydrogen ions (in the case of base).