Question

Explain the buffer action of the sodium acetate-acetic acid buffer.

Hint:

Buffer systems, like the sodium acetate-acetic acid solution, are designed to minimize pH fluctuations when small quantities of acidic or basic components are introduced.

Answer 1

A sodium acetate-acetic acid buffer effectively maintains a stable pH by neutralizing added acids or bases. 
\[ CH_3COOH \rightleftharpoons CH_3COO^- + H^+ \] - When \( H^+ \) (acid) is introduced, it is consumed by the acetate ions \( (CH_3COO^-) \), which mitigates any decrease in pH. 
- Conversely, when \( OH^- \) (base) is added, it reacts with the acetic acid \( (CH_3COOH) \), preventing an increase in pH.