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 

Answered by Ritvij S. Chemistry tutor

2636 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the trend in electronegativity of group 7?


How would you determine the pH of a solution?


NaOH is a strong base. An aqueous solution is made containing 0.300mol.dm^-3 of NaOH at room temperature. Calculate the pH of this solution.


What is the C-O-H bond angle in propan-2-ol and why is this? [4 marks]


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences