Abstract
The paper explains that buffer solutions are solutions that resist a change in pH when a small amount of a strong acid or base is present. The paper looks at acidic and alkaline buffer solutions and shows how buffer solutions act according to LaChatelier's principle of equilibrium and stress. The paper explains the role of buffer solutions in our blood and also shows how the existence of buffer solutions affects how our bodies can withstand the stresses of mundane processes, such as metabolism and physical exertion, or deprivation of physiological necessities, such as water, food or oxygen.

From the Paper
"It is important that the homeostatic condition in our bodies is maintained; a balance between components of acidic and basic compositions must exist to avoid any detrimental effects on bodily functions. This balance reflects in the pH of bodily components, such as in blood. Normally, blood has a pH of 7.4; any change in blood pH by as little as 1 pH can result to coma and multi-organ dysfunction (Minnesota State University sec. 4). Metabolic processes can result in pH changes, while bodily stresses such as being in a hypoxic condition, being engaged in physical exertion, or starvation can also result in pH alterations. Proteins and genetic materials in the body can denature when they are forced to exist in extreme pH environments. However, the presence of buffer solutions ensures that drastic changes and consequent catastrophic effects will be avoided."

Tags:acid, alkali, blood, lungs, kidneys, equilibrium, pH

Abstract
The paper defines the term ecosystem as an area which includes all the living organisms, their physical surroundings, and the natural cycles that sustain them. It also gives several examples of ecosystems such as forests. The paper then studies the ecosystem of Mono Lake in California. It covers issues such as tools used to study the ecosystem, the biogeography of the area, plants and animals of the area, the food web, water recycling and the human impact.

From the Paper
"For at least the last 5,500 years, Paiute Indians have lived off the land and waters of the Mono Basin. Using shallow skimming baskets, Kutzadikaa Paiute women collected kutsavi, the pupae of alkali flies an excellent source of protein. The arrival of miners and those who supplied them with food, clothing, and other goods brought the peaceful coexistence of the Kutzadikaa with their surroundings to a rapid end.
Settlements of gold miners came and went quickly in the last half of the 19th century. With the collapse of mining in the 1880s, Mono Lake began its irregular career as a resort destination. As late as the 1930s, hotels attracted tourists to the lake by claiming its waters had healing properties. Until the 1950s, excursion boats sometimes ferried tourists to the islands for hiking and picnics."

Tags:Ecology, Sierra, California, Department, of, Fish, and, Game, alkali, fly