Buffers are weak acids or bases that can react with strong acids or bases to prevent sudden changes in pH

Question

I need to know the answer so please tell me

Answer 1

Hello Isaiah

 

They can be both.  A buffer is a mixture of a weak acid and its conjugate base OR a weak base and its conjugate acid.  Depending on the pH required (acidic or basic), you can prepare it using either of the 2 combinations above.

 

2 examples.

 

1) A buffer in acidic pH can be prepared by mixing acetic acid (weak acid) and sodium acetate (conjugate base).

 

2) A buffer in basic pH can be prepared by mixing ammonia (weak base) and ammonium chloride (conjugate acid).