Identify a good buffer.
A) small amounts of both a weak acid and its conjugate base
B) significant amounts of both a strong acid and a strong base
C) small amounts of both a strong acid and a strong base
D) significant amounts of both a weak acid and a strong acid
E) significant amounts of both a weak acid and its conjugate base

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A good buffer needs to have both a weak acid and its conjugate base in significant amounts so that it can resist changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added. Option E includes this characteristic and is thus the best choice. Option A also includes a weak acid and its conjugate base but states small amounts which may not provide an adequate buffering capacity. Options B, C, and D do not include a weak acid and its conjugate base which are necessary for a buffer.

Identify a Good Buffer