What is the pKa of buffer solution HC_2H_3O_2 when HCl is added?

(HCl is part A)
part B: What about when NaOH is added?

(Google didn't tell me anything lol)

1 Answer
anor277
Jul 31, 2018

Look at the buffer equation....and we address pH NOT pK_a, the which is the acid dissociation constant....pK_a HOAc=4.76.

Explanation:

A buffer is where a weak base, and its conjugate acid are mixed together in appreciable quantities to give a solution that resists gross changes in pH...and for such a system...

pH=pK_a+log_10{[[A^-]]/[[HA]]}

In this scenario, where acetic acid is used as the acid...

pH=4.76+log_10{[[OAc^-]]/[[HOAc]]}

Addition of acetic acid OR acetate ion (OR H_3O^+ or HO^-) should change the pH of the solution only marginally. What will be the pH of the buffer if [""^(-)OAc]=[HOAc]

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