8.10 Buffer Capacity

Buffer Capacity

Each buffer has a buffer capacity, which defines how much ${H^+}$ or {OH^–} will be neutralized by the buffer before it stops working (if all the {F^–} reacts with ${H^+}$, any further addition of $H⁺ cannot be neutralized by the buffer). This depends solely on the concentration of the weak acid and a conjugate base: if both substances are ${0.2M}$, the buffer capacity will increase if they are made ${0.5M}$, and a buffer that has more base than acid will have a greater buffer capacity for the addition of ${H^+}$ (it will react with the base). For more information about buffers, please refer to Lesson 8.4.