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Multiple Choice
Which statement is true about pH buffers?
A
Buffers are effective only at pH 7.
B
Buffers increase the pH of a solution significantly.
C
Buffers resist changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added.
D
Buffers can only be made from strong acids and strong bases.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of a buffer: A buffer is a solution that can resist pH changes when small amounts of an acid or a base are added. This is due to the presence of a weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid.
Evaluate the first statement: 'Buffers are effective only at pH 7.' This is incorrect because buffers can be effective at a range of pH values, not just at pH 7. The effectiveness of a buffer depends on the pKa of the acid/base pair used.
Evaluate the second statement: 'Buffers increase the pH of a solution significantly.' This is incorrect because buffers are designed to maintain a stable pH, not to increase it significantly.
Evaluate the third statement: 'Buffers resist changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added.' This is correct as it accurately describes the primary function of a buffer.
Evaluate the fourth statement: 'Buffers can only be made from strong acids and strong bases.' This is incorrect because buffers are typically made from weak acids and their conjugate bases, or weak bases and their conjugate acids, not strong acids or bases.