5 Questions
What is the main characteristic of a buffer solution?
It resists significant pH changes on dilution or addition of acid/base
How does a buffer solution resist pH change when a strong acid is added?
The equilibrium shifts to the left, consuming the added hydrogen ions
What is the role of the weak acid and its conjugate base in a buffer solution?
They establish a chemical equilibrium that resists pH change
In what living systems is buffering used for pH regulation?
Blood and ocean
What happens to the pH of a buffer solution when a small amount of strong base is added?
The pH remains nearly constant
Study Notes
Buffer Solution Characteristics
- The main characteristic of a buffer solution is its ability to resist changes in pH when an acid or a base is added.
Resistance to pH Change
- When a strong acid is added to a buffer solution, the pH resists change because the excess hydrogen ions (H+) react with the conjugate base to form the weak acid, thereby minimizing the pH change.
Role of Weak Acid and Conjugate Base
- The weak acid and its conjugate base in a buffer solution work together to maintain a relatively constant pH by reacting with added acids or bases to neutralize their effects.
Biological Buffering
- Buffering is used for pH regulation in various living systems, including blood plasma, where it helps maintain a narrow pH range necessary for proper cellular function.
Effect of Strong Base Addition
- When a small amount of strong base is added to a buffer solution, the pH remains relatively constant because the hydroxide ions (OH-) react with the weak acid to form water, minimizing the pH change.
Test your knowledge of buffer solutions with this quiz! Explore the principles behind buffer solutions and their applications in various chemical processes. Learn about how buffer solutions maintain pH stability and their significance in natural systems.
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