Understanding Buffer Solutions

What is a buffer solution?

• A buffer solution is a solution that resists changes in pH upon the addition of small amounts of acid or base.

• A buffer solution is a solution that changes pH dramatically when acid or base is added.

• A buffer solution is a type of solvent used for dissolving solids.

• A buffer solution is a mixture that only contains water and salt.

How does a buffer solution maintain pH?

• A buffer solution maintains pH by increasing temperature.

• A buffer solution only works with strong acids.

• A buffer solution maintains pH by neutralizing added acids or bases.

• A buffer solution changes pH by diluting the solution.

What are the components of a buffer solution?

• A weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid.

• A strong acid and its conjugate base

• A salt and a strong acid

• A weak acid and a strong base

Explain the difference between a strong acid and a weak acid in the context of buffers.

• A strong acid only partially dissociates, while a weak acid fully dissociates.

• A strong acid fully dissociates in solution, while a weak acid only partially dissociates, making weak acids essential for buffer systems.

• Weak acids are not effective in maintaining pH levels.

• Buffers are only made from strong acids and bases.

What role do conjugate acids and bases play in buffer solutions?

• Conjugate acids and bases increase the pH of the solution.

• Conjugate acids and bases help maintain pH stability in buffer solutions by neutralizing added acids and bases.

• Buffer solutions do not require conjugate acids or bases to function.

• Conjugate acids and bases only affect the color of the solution.

How do you prepare a buffer solution?

• Mix a weak acid and its conjugate base or a weak base and its conjugate acid in the correct ratio.

• Combine a strong acid with a weak base in any ratio.

• Use only water to create the buffer solution.

• Mix a strong acid and a strong base in equal parts.

What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation?

• pH = pKa - log([A-]/[HA])

• pH = log([HA]/[A-]) + pKa

• pH = pKa + [A-] - [HA]

• pH = pKa + log([A-]/[HA])

How does dilution affect the pH of a buffer solution?

• Dilution has minimal effect on the pH of a buffer solution, but it reduces buffer capacity.

• Dilution makes the buffer solution more acidic regardless of its components.

• Dilution significantly increases the pH of a buffer solution.

• Dilution has no effect on the buffer capacity at all.

What is the significance of buffer capacity?

• Buffer capacity is solely determined by temperature changes.

• Buffer capacity is important for maintaining stable pH levels in chemical and biological systems.

• Buffer capacity has no effect on enzyme activity.

• Buffer capacity is only relevant in industrial applications.

Give an example of a common buffer solution and its use.

• Ammonium hydroxide and ammonium sulfate buffer

• Sodium chloride and water solution

• Potassium hydroxide and potassium chloride buffer

• Acetic acid and sodium acetate buffer solution.