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Ch.17 - Aqueous Ionic Equilibrium
Chapter 17, Problem 53a

Determine whether or not the mixing of each pair of solutions results in a buffer. a. 100.0 mL of 0.10 M NH3; 100.0 mL of 0.15 M NH4Cl

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Buffer Solutions

A buffer solution is a system that resists changes in pH upon the addition of small amounts of acid or base. It typically consists of a weak acid and its conjugate base or a weak base and its conjugate acid. This equilibrium allows the buffer to neutralize added acids or bases, maintaining a relatively stable pH.
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Buffer Solutions

Weak Bases and Conjugate Acids

In the context of buffers, a weak base is a substance that partially ionizes in solution, establishing an equilibrium between the base and its conjugate acid. For example, ammonia (NH3) is a weak base, and when mixed with its conjugate acid, ammonium chloride (NH4Cl), it can form a buffer system that helps maintain pH stability.
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Conjugate Acid-Base Relationships

Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation

The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is a mathematical formula used to calculate the pH of a buffer solution. It relates the pH to the concentration of the weak acid and its conjugate base, expressed as pH = pKa + log([A-]/[HA]). This equation is essential for determining whether a given mixture can function as a buffer.
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Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation