Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation for Tris Buffer:
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The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is used to estimate the pH of a buffer solution. For Tris buffer, it relates the pH to the pKa of Tris and the ratio of the concentration of the basic form ([Tris]) to the acidic form ([TrisH⁺]).
The calculator uses the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that the pH of the buffer depends on the pKa value and the logarithm of the ratio between the conjugate base and acid concentrations.
Details: Accurate pH calculation is crucial for preparing Tris buffers in biological and biochemical experiments, as many biological processes are pH-sensitive and require specific buffer conditions.
Tips: Enter the pKa value (typically 8.06 for Tris at 25°C), and the concentrations of both [Tris] and [TrisH⁺] in mol/L. All concentration values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the typical pKa value for Tris buffer?
A: The pKa for Tris is approximately 8.06 at 25°C, but it varies with temperature (decreases by about 0.028 units per °C increase).
Q2: Why is Tris buffer commonly used in biological experiments?
A: Tris buffer is widely used because it's effective in the physiological pH range (7-9), has good solubility, and is relatively inert in biological systems.
Q3: How does temperature affect Tris buffer pH?
A: Tris buffer has a significant temperature coefficient - the pH decreases by approximately 0.028 units per °C increase in temperature.
Q4: What is the effective buffering range for Tris?
A: Tris buffer is most effective in the pH range of 7.0-9.0, which covers the pKa ± 1 unit.
Q5: Are there limitations to using the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation?
A: The equation assumes ideal behavior and may not be accurate at very high or very low concentrations, or when the ratio [Tris]/[TrisH⁺] is extreme.