Final answer:
A buffer system involves a weak acid and its conjugate base or a weak base and its conjugate acid, which together resist changes in pH when strong acids or bases are added. They are most effective at a pH close to the pKa or pKb of the weak acid or base and are vital for biological systems to maintain a precise pH for proper functioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
In reference to the statements about buffers:
- (a) When a strong base is added to a buffer system, the acidic component of the buffer reacts with this base to neutralize it. This is true because buffers consist of a weak acid and its conjugate base and can neutralize added bases.
- (b) Buffers are most effective in the pH (pOH) range of + 1 unit to either side of pKa (pKb) of the buffer system. This is true, as maximum pH control is achieved when the pH is within one unit of the pKa value of the weak acid in the buffer.
- (c) When a strong acid is added to a buffer system, the basic component of the buffer reacts with this acid to neutralize it. This is also true as the conjugate base in the buffer solution can neutralize added acids.
- (d) A buffer is often used to maintain a particular pH in order for a specific system (often biological) to function. This is true; buffers are crucial for maintaining the pH for proper physiological functions.
- (e) Buffers are often used to separate two components of a complex chemical system. This statement is not typically a recognized function of buffers.
- (f) Any acid can be combined with any base to make a buffer system. This is false; a buffer system requires a weak acid and its conjugate base or a weak base and its conjugate acid.
- (g) A buffer resists large changes in pH. This is a fundamental property of buffers and is therefore true.