Question

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?

Answer 1

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...