MasteryExams
General Science • ChemistryHard

Consider an aqueous solution containing equal molar concentrations of acetic acid and sodium acetate. What specific chemical property does this mixture exhibit?

A. Strong oxidizing action
B. Buffer action resisting pH changes✓ Correct Answer
C. Immediate precipitation of salts
D. High electrical conductivity like molten metals

💡 Solution & Explanation

A mixture of a weak organic acid like acetic acid and its salt with a strong base like sodium acetate forms an acidic buffer solution capable of maintaining a stable pH upon the addition of small amounts of strong acids or bases. Strong oxidizers readily accept electrons, which is unrelated to buffer mechanics. Electrical conductivity in aqueous solutions depends on total ion concentration rather than buffering capacity. Buffer solutions play critical roles in biochemical assays and physiological systems.

🚩 Report a problem