Phosphate buffer pH 6.8 is frequently used in medical diagnostics, histology and scientific laboratories. This solution is used in particular to stabilize the pH value during experimental and analytical procedures in biochemistry and molecular biology. In histology in particular, the buffer is used to condition tissue samples during staining processes. The solution is composed of di-sodium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate (Na2HPO4-2H2O) and potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4). These salts dissociate in aqueous solution, releasing corresponding cations and the phosphate anion (PO4^3-). This contributes to the buffering capacity by effectively counteracting fluctuations in the pH value.

By adding these specific phosphates, a pH of 6.8 is achieved, which is ideal for many life science applications as it approximates the physiological pH environment of many biological systems. The molarity of this solution is based on the added masses of the phosphates and the total volume, which allows for precise pH tuning. The osmolarity achieved is compatible with most cellular applications and minimizes osmotic stress on biological samples.

The buffer capacity is sufficient to ensure pH stability even when acids or bases are added, which is essential for the reliability of experimental results.

The correct use of this buffer results in stable pH conditions in life science studies.