Buffing up on HCN/NaCN Buffer Chemistry! 🧪✨

What is the percent of the protonated species in HCN/NaCN buffer at pH8.4?

Ka of HCN = 6.17 x 10 ⁻¹⁰

Answer:

In an HCN/NaCN buffer at pH 8.4, approximately 86.9% of the species are protonated (HCN).

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of buffer solutions? Let's break down the calculation to find the percent of the protonated species in the HCN/NaCN buffer at pH 8.4!

To start off, we utilize the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, a fundamental tool in buffer chemistry. Given the pKa of HCN as 9.21 and the pH of the solution as 8.4, we incorporate these values into the equation to determine the ratio of [HCN] to [CN-].

After solving for the ratio and establishing that there is more HCN present than CN-, we proceed to calculate the percentage of the protonated form within the buffer solution. By applying the formula [HCN]/([HCN]+[CN-]) * 100%, we arrive at the exciting revelation that approximately 86.9% of the species in the HCN/NaCN buffer are protonated at pH 8.4!

Buffer systems play a crucial role in maintaining pH levels in various chemical environments, making them a vital aspect of chemical processes. Understanding the composition and properties of buffers enables us to manipulate and control reactions effectively.

Expand your knowledge further by exploring the intricate concepts of Buffer pH and Protonation, discovering the intricate balance of acidity and basicity in chemical systems!