Question 1

Which of the following equations correctly defines the pH of a solution?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{pH} = -\log_{10}[\mathrm{H}^+]$$

Question 2

A solution with a pH of 3 is how many times more acidic than a solution with a pH of 6?

Accepted Answer

1,000 times

Question 3

If a solution has a high concentration of $$\mathrm{H}^+$$ ions, what can you infer about its pH?

Accepted Answer

The pH is low

Question 4

Which of the following best describes a buffer's function in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

Buffers minimize changes in the concentration of hydrogen ions

Question 5

The internal pH of most living cells is closest to which value?

Accepted Answer

7

Question 6

What happens to the pH of a solution if the concentration of $$\mathrm{H}^+$$ increases tenfold?

Accepted Answer

The pH decreases by 1

Question 7

Which of the following statements about buffers is correct?

Accepted Answer

Buffers can both accept and donate hydrogen ions

Question 8

A buffer solution typically contains which of the following?

Accepted Answer

A weak acid and its corresponding base

Question 9

Why do buffers resist changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added?

Accepted Answer

They combine reversibly with hydrogen ions

Question 10

If the pH of a solution changes from 7 to 5, what happens to the $$\mathrm{H}^+$$ concentration?

Accepted Answer

It increases by 100 times

Question 11

Which of the following best describes an acidic solution?

Accepted Answer

pH less than 7

Question 12

A solution with a pH of 9 is considered:

Accepted Answer

Basic

Question 13

Which of the following is a real-life example of a buffer system in the human body?

Accepted Answer

The carbonic acid-bicarbonate system

Question 14

If a buffer solution is overwhelmed by a large amount of acid, what will happen?

Accepted Answer

The pH will eventually decrease

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why pH is measured on a logarithmic scale?

Accepted Answer

Because hydrogen ion concentrations vary over a wide range

pH, Buffers, and Acid-Base Balance in Biological Systems

Study Guide - Practice Questions