How do you answer a long answer question on how buffer systems work?

1) First, state how the buffer is prepared by saying that an excess of acid reacts with a base (include the equation for this reaction)

b) Write the overall equation of the buffer system (remember to show it as reversible) 

c) State the effect of adding an acid to the mixture: there is an increase in H+ concentration, this reacts with the conjugate base and equilibrium shifts left

d) State the effect of adding an alkali: it reacts with H+ ions leading to a fall in H+ conc, equilibrium shifts to right to restore concentrations

n.b the Ka of the buffer system remains the same throughout all the concentration changes 

RS
Answered by Ritvij S. Chemistry tutor

3020 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the pressure of one mole of an ideal gas at 273 K and in a volume of 1m3


What is the difference between exothermic and endothermic?


What is the difference between ionic and metallic bonding?


Calculate the pH of 0.1M Benzoic Acid (C6H5COOH). Ka = 6.3x10-5 M


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning