Which one of the following statements is TRUE?
A) A buffer is an aqueous solution composed of two strong bases.
B) A buffer can absorb an unlimited amount of base.
C) A buffer resists pH change by neutralizing added acids and bases.
D) A buffer does not change pH when strong base is added.
E) All of the above are true.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A buffer is an aqueous solution composed of a weak acid and its conjugate base or a weak base and its conjugate acid. A buffer can absorb a limited amount of base or acid before becoming overwhelmed and unable to resist pH change. The primary function of a buffer is to resist pH change by neutralizing small amounts of added acids or bases. When strong base is added, the pH of the buffer will increase, but the degree of pH change will depend on the buffer capacity, which is determined by the concentration of the weak acid and its conjugate base or the weak base and its conjugate acid. A buffer composed of strong bases would not be able to resist pH change.

Which One of the Following Statements Is TRUE