40.4k views
3 votes
How do fluctuations in the ratio of [HA] / [A-] affect a buffer's effectiveness?

a. Increase effectiveness
b. Decrease effectiveness
c. No effect on effectiveness
d. Makes it neutral

1 Answer

1 vote

Final answer:

The fluctuations in the ratio of [HA] / [A-] affect the effectiveness of a buffer solution. A buffer is most effective when the concentrations of the weak acid and its conjugate base are equal, resulting in a pH close to the pKa value of the weak acid.

Step-by-step explanation:

The fluctuations in the ratio of [HA] / [A-] have an effect on the effectiveness of a buffer solution.

A buffer solution is composed of a weak acid (HA) and its conjugate weak base (A-). The ratio of these two components determines the pH of the buffer solution.

A buffer is most effective when the concentrations of the weak acid and its conjugate base are equal, resulting in a pH close to the pKa value of the weak acid. Any fluctuations in this ratio will result in a change in the pH of the buffer solution, making it less effective.

User GIJOW
by
8.2k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.