Question

Explain how the buffer impacted changes in pH for both Hydrochloric Acid and Sodium Hydroxide as compared to when these chemicals were added to water alone.

Answer 1

When HCl and NaOH are added to water alone, there is a large change in pH. However, when added to a buffer solution, the change in pH is smaller due to the buffer's ability to resist pH changes. The buffer can absorb or release hydrogen ions to maintain a constant pH.

Step-by-step explanation:

When hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) are added to water alone, there is a large change in pH. However, when HCl and NaOH are added to a buffer solution, the change in pH is much smaller. A buffer is a solution that can resist changes in pH when an acid or base is added. In the case of the buffer solution containing acetic acid (CH3COOH) and its conjugate CH3COO-, the addition of the same amount of HCl or NaOH only causes a 1% change in pH. This is because the buffer can absorb or release hydrogen ions (H+) to maintain a relatively constant pH.