When an acid is added to a buffer, does the acid in the buffer turn into base to neutralize the acid? Or is there some other that the buffers maintains constant pH?

1 Answer
May 6, 2018

The base that comprises the buffer solution is PROTONATED...

Explanation:

The buffer equation is given by...

#pH=pK_a+log_10{([A^-])/([HA])}#...when a moderate quantity of #H_3O^+# is added, the #[A^-]# is REDUCED, given that it is protonated to give increased #[HA]#. But because the ratio is modified by the logarithmic term, the diminution in #pH# is modified...and likewise if base is added...