Buffer solutions can be created using specific combinations of weak acids and their salts or weak bases and their salts. For acidic buffers, a weak acid can be combined with a strong base to form a salt, while for alkaline buffers, a weak base can be combined with a strong acid to create a salt. Understanding the equilibrium and equilibrium constants for these reactions is crucial, and one may need to solve quadratic equations when calculating pH levels. The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is also a key tool in determining the pH of buffer solutions. For further details, consulting a handbook of buffers or a quantitative chemistry textbook is recommended.