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Intro to Buffers quiz

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  • What is the main function of a buffer solution?
    A buffer solution resists drastic changes in pH by neutralizing added acids or bases.
  • What two components must a buffer contain to be effective?
    A buffer must contain both a weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid.
  • What happens to the pH of a buffer when a small amount of strong acid is added?
    The pH decreases slightly, but not drastically, because the buffer neutralizes most of the added acid.
  • What is the chemical opposite of a strong acid added to a buffer?
    The chemical opposite is the conjugate base present in the buffer, which neutralizes the strong acid.
  • How does a buffer respond to the addition of a strong base?
    The weak acid in the buffer neutralizes the strong base, causing only a slight increase in pH.
  • What is an ideal buffer in terms of component concentrations?
    An ideal buffer has equal concentrations of the weak acid (or base) and its conjugate base (or acid).
  • Name one way to create a buffer solution.
    One way is to mix a weak acid or base with its conjugate base or acid.
  • What must be true about the concentrations when making a buffer from a strong acid and a weak base?
    The weak base must be present in a higher concentration than the strong acid.
  • What is buffer capacity?
    Buffer capacity is the amount of acid or base a buffer can neutralize before its pH changes significantly.
  • How does increasing the concentration of buffer components affect buffer capacity?
    Increasing the concentration of buffer components increases the buffer capacity.
  • What is the effective buffer range in terms of the ratio of weak acid to conjugate base?
    A buffer is effective when the ratio of weak acid to conjugate base is between 10:1 and 1:10.
  • What happens if the ratio of weak acid to conjugate base falls outside the 10:1 to 1:10 range?
    The buffer becomes less effective at resisting pH changes.
  • Why are spectator ions not important in buffer reactions?
    Spectator ions do not participate in the neutralization reactions and do not affect the buffer's pH.
  • What is the most common pair for making a buffer?
    The most common pair is a weak acid and its conjugate base.
  • Why is it important to maintain the correct concentration ratios in a buffer?
    Maintaining the correct ratios ensures the buffer remains effective at resisting pH changes.