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Buffers: How Does A Buffer Work?
Buffers: How Does A Buffer Work?
Buffers: How Does A Buffer Work?
A buffer is a solution containing both an acid and a base. A buffer can absorb excess acid (H+)
or base (OH-) without the pH of the solution changing significantly. It usually consists of 2
solutes, one is a weak Bronsted acid and the other is its conjugate base supplied by a soluble salt
of the acid. (Eg. Acetic acid and sodium acetate)
eg) Consider a buffer solution containing 0.2 M NaHCO3 and 0.3 M Na2CO3.
Ka = ([H3O+1] [CO3-2])/[HCO3-1]
4.7*10-11 = (x)(0.3)/0.2
x = 3.1*10-11
We will first add an acid to the buffer which is called acid shock.
Ka = ([H3O+1] [CO3-2])/[HCO3-1]
4.7*10-11 = (x)(0.29)/0.21
x = 3.4*10-11
[H+1] = 3.4*10-11 pH = 10.46 (hardly changed)
We will now add a base to the buffer which is called base shock.
Ka = ([H3O+1] [CO3-2])/[HCO3-1]
4.7*10-11 = (x)(0.32)/0.18
x = 2.6*10-11
If you want a buffer of a specific pH, the pKa of the weak acid chosen must be within 1 unit of
the desired pH. (pH = pKa +/- 1)
eg) Can acetic acid and sodium acetate be used to make a buffer with pH = 5.00. If so, what
ratio of acetic acid to sodium acetate is required.
you can make a solution where the mole ratio is 1.8 mol sodium acetate
check pKa=s for the one closest to 3.85 benzoate Ka = 6.6*10-5 pKa = 4.18
Hint: the pH needed means the solution will be basic so use the appropriate formula!
OR
NH4+1 + H2O H3O+1 + NH3 acid (treated as an acidic buffer)
n = C*V m = n*M
n = (0.317)(0.25) m = (0.0792)(53.5)
n = 0.0792 mol m = 4.24 g