A Popular Buffer Solution Consists of Carbonate (CO₃^2-) and Hydrogen

question 74

Multiple Choice

A popular buffer solution consists of carbonate (CO₃^2-) and hydrogen carbonate (HCO₃^-) conjugate acid-base pair. Which, if any, of the following such buffers has the highest buffer capacity?

• A) 0.9 M CO₃^2- and 0.1 M HCO₃^-
• B) 0.1 M CO₃^2- and 0.9 M HCO₃^-
• C) 0.5 M CO₃^2- and 0.5 M HCO₃^-
• D) 0.1 M CO₃^2- and 0.1 M HCO₃^-
• E) They all have the same buffer capacity.

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Definitions:

Acidic Soil PH

Soil that has a pH level below 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydrogen ions and often requiring adjustment for certain plant growth.

Macronutrient

An essential element required in fairly large amounts for normal growth. Compare with micronutrient.

Calcium

A chemical element with the symbol Ca, essential for living organisms, particularly in cell physiology, where it plays a key role in signal transduction pathways, bone structure, and teeth strength.

Positively Charged Mineral Ions

Ions that have lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net positive charge, and are essential for various physiological processes in plants and animals.