Acids, Bases etc Flashcards
What is an acid?
A compound that forms H+ in solution, a ‘proton donor’
HA ⇌ H+ + A-
acid proton conjugate base
What is a base?
A compound that combines with hydrogen ions in solution, a ‘proton acceptor’
B + H+ ⇌ BH+
Base + Hydrogen ion ⇌ conjugate acid
What is a buffer?
A compound that limits the change in hydrogen ion concentration when hydrogen ions are added or removed from solution
HA ⇌ H+ + A-
1) If H ions are added reaction shifts to the left so H+ ions are used up, reducing pH to normal levels
2) If H ions are removed the reaction shifts to the right, releasing more ions into the solution, so pH returns to normal levels
What is a strong acid?
A compound that ionizes completely in solution to form hydrogen ions and a base
What is a weak acid
A compound that ionizes partly in solution