Chapter 17, Problem 17.1QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The term buffer has to be explained with an example

Explanation of Solution

Buffer:

A buffer is solution containing a mixture of two substances. A buffer solution is characterized by the tendency to resist changes in pH when some limited of amount of acid or base are added to it.

 A buffer should possess either a weak acid and its conjugate anion that is a conjugate base (weak) or a weak base and its conjugate cation that is a conjugate acid (weak).

In a buffer solution, both the species that is an acid and a base exists in equilibrium.

Buffer solution has the tendency to join with both hydronium ion and hydroxide ion and therefore, it does not show changes in pH thereby resisting it.

Example:

An example of buffer is blood.

Blood acts as a buffer solution. The conjugate acid-base pairs present in blood are ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CO}}_{\text{3}}{\text{ and HCO}}_{\text{3}}{}^{\text{-}}$