Which one of them cannot function as a buffer solution?

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A buffer can be made either by partially titrating an acid or having a weak acid with its conjugate base.

In options A, B, C, and E, there is a weak acid (HA) with it's conjugate base (A-). However, in D, there is HCl, a strong acid, with Cl-. The HCl/KCl system is not a buffer because the $\ce{Cl-}$ anion is the conjugate base of a strong acid, and therefore remains deprotonated; the $\ce{Cl-}$ anion does not contribute to the overall $\ce{pH}$. Since $\ce{HCl}$ is the only source of protons, and there is no other species to take up the protons, the HCl/KCl system is not a buffer.

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Beyl
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Updated on January 14, 2023

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  • Beyl
    Beyl 10 months

    A) HCN and KCN B) NH3 and (NH4)2SO4 C) HF and NaF D) HCI and KCI E) HNO2 and NaNO2

    Which one of the following combinations cannot function as a buffer solution and why?

    • A.K.
      A.K. about 5 years
      Welcome to Chemistry.SE. Homework questions are okay but some attempt to answer/understand the question must be demonstrated.