Question

What are buffer solutions? Give example.

Answer 1

1. Buffer solutions resist changes in pH by the addition of small quantities of an acid or a base. This ability is known as buffer action.
2. Buffer solutions consist of a mixture of a weak acid and a salt of a weak acid and a strong base.
   eg: CH₃COOH + CH₃COONa. This type of buffer is known as an acid buffer.
3. Buffer solution which consists of a mixture of a weak base and a salt of a weak base and strong acid is known as a basic buffer.
   eg: NH₄OH and NH₄Cl.