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Calculate The Ph Of Buffer Solution Containing 0

Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation:

\[ pH = pKa + \log\left(\frac{[A⁻]}{[HA]}\right) \]

(dimensionless)
mol/L
mol/L

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1. What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation?

The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is used to estimate the pH of buffer solutions. It relates the pH of a solution to the pKa of the acid and the ratio of the concentrations of the conjugate base [A⁻] to the weak acid [HA].

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation:

\[ pH = pKa + \log\left(\frac{[A⁻]}{[HA]}\right) \]

Where:

Explanation: The equation shows that the pH of a buffer solution depends on the pKa of the weak acid and the ratio of its conjugate base to acid concentrations.

3. Importance of pH Calculation in Buffer Solutions

Details: Buffer solutions resist pH changes when small amounts of acid or base are added. Accurate pH calculation is crucial for biological systems, chemical reactions, and industrial processes where pH stability is required.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pKa value of the weak acid, and the concentrations of both conjugate base and weak acid in mol/L. All concentration values must be positive, and [HA] must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a buffer solution?
A: A buffer solution is one that resists changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added, typically composed of a weak acid and its conjugate base.

Q2: When is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation most accurate?
A: The equation is most accurate when the concentrations of [A⁻] and [HA] are within a factor of 10 of each other, and when the pKa is within ±1 unit of the desired pH.

Q3: What are typical pKa values for common buffer systems?
A: Common buffers include acetic acid (pKa = 4.76), phosphate (pKa = 7.2), and Tris (pKa = 8.06).

Q4: Can this equation be used for strong acids or bases?
A: No, the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is specifically designed for weak acid-conjugate base buffer systems.

Q5: What are the limitations of this equation?
A: The equation assumes ideal behavior and may not be accurate at very high or very low concentrations, or when the ratio [A⁻]/[HA] is extreme.

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