What happens when some alkali is added to a buffer solution?

The dissociation of the weak acid ‘HA’ would be shown as:HA (aq) ⇌ H+ (aq) + A (aq)Adding alkali will add OH- ions to the solution. These will react with the H+ ions present in the solution, producing water (H2O). As a result, the concentration of Hions will decrease. The system will react to oppose this change, so the position of equilibrium will move towards the side with the H+. Therefore, the position of equilibrium will move to the right (product side). In order to replace the lost H+ ions, some HA molecules will dissociate forming A- ions in the process. This means the fall in H+ concentration is resisted and the pH of the buffer solution remains fairly constant.

HD

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

By considering the mechanism of the two step reaction of butanone and NaBH4 followed by dilute acid, explain why the product has no effect on plane polarised light.


Draw an example using a diagram of Carbon, three "Y" substrates and an "L" indicating any leaving group the Sn1 nucleophilic substitution reaction. (3 marks) Which step is fastest (1 mark).


Describe in the full the structure and bonding present in a benzene ring


What happens to the physical properties(solubility/boiling/melting point) as chain length increases, and as functional groups are added onto the chemical compound?