Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Equilibria

Equilibria — practice question

(a(i))[2]

What does the term buffer solution mean?

(a(ii))[2]

Write equations to show how the hydrogencarbonate ion, HCO$_3^-$, regulates the pH of blood.

(a(iii))[2]

A mixture containing both Na$_2$HPO$_4$ and NaH$_2$PO$_4$ is often used as a buffer solution. The equilibrium below is established in the solution. H$_2$PO$_4^-$(aq) $\rightleftharpoons$ HPO$_4^{2-}$(aq) + H$^+$(aq) \quad $K_a = 6.2 \times 10^{-8}$ mol dm$^{-3}$ Calculate the pH of a buffer solution prepared by mixing 100 cm$^3$ of 0.5 mol dm$^{-3}$ Na$_2$HPO$_4$ and 100 cm$^3$ of 0.3 mol dm$^{-3}$ NaH$_2$PO$_4$.

(b(i))[1]

Silver phosphate, Ag$_3$PO$_4$, dissolves only slightly in water. Write an expression for the solubility product, $K_{sp}$, of Ag$_3$PO$_4$, and give its units.

(b(ii))[3]

The value of $K_{sp}$ is $1.25 \times 10^{-20}$ at 298 K. Use this to calculate [Ag$^+$(aq)] in a saturated solution of Ag$_3$PO$_4$.

(c)[2]

The half-equation for the redox reaction between phosphoric(III) acid and phosphoric(V) acid is shown. H$_3$PO$_4$(aq) + 2H$^+$(aq) + 2e$^- \rightleftharpoons$ H$_3$PO$_3$(aq) + H$_2$O(l) \quad $E^\circ = -0.28$ V Use suitable information from the Data Booklet to write an equation for the reaction between H$_3$PO$_3$ and Fe$^{3+}$(aq) ions, and calculate the $E^\circ_{\text{cell}}$ for the reaction.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 12-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: A buffer is a solution that resists changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added

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