Chapter 8, Problem 45P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The change in the pH of a buffer and change in the capacity of a buffer should be explained.

Concept Introduction:

The quantitative measurement of the resistance of buffer solution with reference to change in pH on hydroxide ions addition is known as buffer capacity.

It is mathematically represented as follows:

$\beta =\frac{dn}{d\left(p\left[{\text{H}}^{+}\right]\right)}$

Here, dn is small amount of base added and $d\left(p\left[{\text{H}}^{+}\right]\right)$ is small change in pH of the solution. On addition of limited amount of an acid or base, if a solution does not change the pH, it is known as buffer solution. For example: aqueous solution of weak acid and its conjugate base.