What is the buffer capacity if 3 moles are added in 5 litres of the so...
Buffer capacity is defined as the number of moles of acid or base added in one litre of the solution to change the pH by Unity. Therefore, here buffer capacity = 3/5 divided by 2 = 0.6/2 = 0.3. The buffer capacity is given as 0.3.
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What is the buffer capacity if 3 moles are added in 5 litres of the so...
Understanding Buffer Capacity
Buffer capacity refers to the ability of a buffer solution to resist changes in pH when a strong acid or base is added. It is quantitatively defined as the amount of acid or base (in moles) that can be added to a liter of solution to change the pH by one unit.
Given Data
- Moles added: 3 moles
- Volume of solution: 5 liters
- Change in pH: 2 units
Calculating Buffer Capacity
The formula for buffer capacity (β) can be expressed as:
β = (moles of acid/base added) / (change in pH × volume of solution in liters)
Steps to Calculate
1. Identify the change in pH: The pH change is 2 units.
2. Calculate the volume in liters: The solution volume is 5 liters.
3. Substitute the values:
- Moles of acid/base added = 3 moles
- Change in pH = 2 units
- Volume = 5 liters
β = 3 moles / (2 × 5) = 3 / 10 = 0.3
Conclusion
Thus, the buffer capacity of the solution is 0.3, making option 'D' the correct answer. This means the buffer can tolerate the addition of acid or base without significant pH change, demonstrating its effectiveness in maintaining pH stability within a given range.