Final answer:
The buffer solution mentioned is composed of hydrofluoric acid (HF(aq)) and sodium fluoride (NaF(aq)), where HF is a weak acid and NaF is its conjugate base, working together to resist pH changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
A buffer solution is a system that resists changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added. Specifically, one such buffer solution is a combination of hydrofluoric acid (HF(aq)) and sodium fluoride (NaF(aq)). HF is a weak acid, and NaF is its conjugate base. In a buffer solution, the acid and its conjugate base work together to neutralize added acids or bases.
When HF and NaF are combined in aqueous solution, they create a buffer that can maintain a relatively stable pH. For example, if a strong base is added to this buffer system, the fluoride ion (F-) from NaF can react with the hydroxide ions (OH-) to form water and preserve the pH. If a strong acid is added, the HF can donate a proton to the added anions, once again keeping the pH relatively steady.
The effectiveness of a buffer is determined by the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, which takes into account the ratio of the concentrations of the conjugate base and the conjugate acid within a buffer solution.