PKa and Buffer Solutions: Understanding Optimal pH for Maximum Buffer Capacity

[CrimpJiggler]

I read that a buffer solution has its greatest buffer capacity when its pH = pKa. The pH part I get but how can a solution have a pKa? Ka is the dissociation constant of an acid. Does this mean that to get maximum buffer capacity, you should adjust the pH of the solution so it equals the pKa of the acid you use? Acetic acid has a pKa of around 4.8 so does this mean that if you use acetic acid and sodium acetate to make a buffer solution then you will have to lower the pH to 4.8 in order to get maximum buffer capacity?

 

[Borek]

CF is having problems, so I will give you the same answer I posted there:

Does this mean that to get maximum buffer capacity, you should adjust the pH of the solution so it equals the pKa of the acid you use?

Yes, compare buffer capacity calculation.

 

[CrimpJiggler]

Thanks. You seem to answer 90% of the questions I ask on these forums. You should be getting paid for this lol.

 

[Borek]

You should be getting paid for this lol.

No problem, I can give you details of my PayPal account in PM You can also consider buying ChemBuddy programs - the better they sale, the more time to help people on forums I have.