Which of the following could be added to a solution of sodium acetate to produce a buffer? acetic acid hydrochloric acid potassium acetate sodium chloride
A) sodium chloride or potassium acetate
B) potassium acetate only
C) hydrochloric acid only
D) acetic acid or hydrochloric acid
E) acetic acid only

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For a buffer to be formed, there must be a weak acid/conjugate base or weak base/conjugate acid pair present. In this case, adding acetic acid or hydrochloric acid to the sodium acetate solution will create a weak acid/conjugate base pair, forming a buffer. Therefore, choice D is the best answer.

Which of the Following Could Be Added to a Solution