**CAPS (buffer)**
**Definition**
CAPS (3-(Cyclohexylamino)-1-propanesulfonic acid) is a zwitterionic buffering agent commonly used in biochemical and molecular biology applications to maintain stable pH conditions in the range of 9.7 to 11.1.
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## CAPS (buffer)
CAPS is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the family of Good’s buffers, designed to provide effective pH stabilization in biological and chemical experiments. It is particularly useful in systems requiring alkaline conditions, with an effective buffering range between pH 9.7 and 11.1.
### Chemical Properties
CAPS has the molecular formula C9H19NO4S and features a sulfonic acid group, which contributes to its buffering capacity. It is highly soluble in water and exhibits minimal interaction with metal ions, making it suitable for various enzymatic and biochemical assays.
### Applications
Due to its stable buffering capacity at alkaline pH, CAPS is frequently employed in electrophoresis, protein purification, and nucleic acid hybridization protocols. Its low UV absorbance allows for spectrophotometric measurements without significant interference.
### Advantages and Limitations
CAPS is favored for its chemical stability and minimal biological reactivity. However, its relatively high pH range limits its use to specific applications requiring alkaline conditions. Additionally, it may not be suitable for systems sensitive to amine-containing buffers.
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**Meta Description:**
CAPS is a zwitterionic buffer used to maintain alkaline pH in biochemical experiments. It is valued for its stability and minimal interference in spectrophotometric assays.