Calculating pH After Adding NaOH to NaC3H5O2 Solution

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In summary, the conversation is about calculating the pH of a solution of .1 M NaC3H5O2 and then determining the pH after adding .02 mol NaOH to 1 L of the previous solution. The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation or the simple equilibrium equation must be used to solve this problem. The person asking for help is unsure of where to start and is seeking clarification on the equations and terms involved.
  • #1
Doodan
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Homework Statement


This question refers to a previous question in my book: Calculate the pH of .1 M NaC3H5O2. The question I'm stuck with now: Calculate the pH after .02 mol NaOH is added to 1 L of the *previous* solution.

Homework Equations


The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation or the simple equilibrium equation has to be used here.


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know where to start actually...please help :)
 
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  • #2
Write out the Henderson Hasselbach equation and tell us which terms you don't understand. Write out the equation for the combination of the two reagents and tell us what you don't understand.
 
  • #3


I would approach this problem by first identifying the relevant equations and principles that apply to this situation. In this case, the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation and the principles of acid-base equilibrium would be applicable.

Next, I would gather all the necessary information, such as the initial concentration of NaC3H5O2 and the amount of NaOH added, to calculate the new concentration of the solution after the addition of NaOH. Then, using the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, I would calculate the new pH of the solution.

It is important to note that the addition of NaOH will cause a shift in the equilibrium of the solution, as it is a strong base. This means that the initial concentration of NaC3H5O2 will no longer be the same after the addition of NaOH. Therefore, it is important to recalculate the equilibrium concentrations before using the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation.

Overall, the key steps in solving this problem would be to identify the relevant equations, gather all necessary information, and carefully consider the changes in equilibrium caused by the addition of NaOH.
 

1. How do I calculate the pH after adding NaOH to NaC3H5O2 solution?

To calculate the pH after adding NaOH to NaC3H5O2 solution, you can use the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation: pH = pKa + log([A-]/[HA]), where pKa is the acid dissociation constant of the weak acid in the solution, [A-] is the concentration of the conjugate base (in this case, NaC3H5O2), and [HA] is the concentration of the weak acid (in this case, HC3H5O2).

2. What is the purpose of adding NaOH to the NaC3H5O2 solution?

The purpose of adding NaOH to the NaC3H5O2 solution is to neutralize the weak acid (HC3H5O2) and form a buffer solution. This is because NaOH is a strong base and will react with the weak acid to form its conjugate base (NaC3H5O2) and water. This results in a solution that is resistant to changes in pH, making it useful for various applications in chemistry and biology.

3. Can I use any concentration of NaOH to calculate the pH of the solution?

Yes, you can use any concentration of NaOH to calculate the pH of the solution, as long as you know the concentration of the weak acid (HC3H5O2) and the acid dissociation constant (pKa). However, it is important to note that the pH of the solution will change depending on the concentration of NaOH added.

4. How does the addition of NaOH affect the pH of the solution?

The addition of NaOH to the solution increases the pH of the solution. This is because NaOH is a strong base and will react with the weak acid (HC3H5O2) to form its conjugate base (NaC3H5O2) and water. This reaction results in a decrease in the concentration of the weak acid and an increase in the concentration of the conjugate base, which shifts the equilibrium towards a higher pH.

5. What factors can affect the accuracy of the pH calculation after adding NaOH to NaC3H5O2 solution?

The accuracy of the pH calculation after adding NaOH to NaC3H5O2 solution can be affected by several factors, such as the accuracy of the concentration measurements, temperature, and the presence of other ions or substances in the solution that may affect the equilibrium. It is important to ensure accurate measurements and consider any potential interfering factors when calculating the pH of a solution.

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