Which of the following can be added to a solution of ammonium chloride to get buffer solution?

Correct answer: C. Ammonium hydroxide

  • A. Sodium hydroxide
  • B. Acetic acid
  • C. Ammonium hydroxide
  • D. Calcium hydroxide & potassium hydroxide

Explanation

A buffer solution is formed when a weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid are present together in a solution. Ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) contains the ammonium ion (NH4+), which acts as a conjugate acid. To create a buffer, you need a weak base that can pair with this conjugate acid. Ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) is a weak base and can be added to ammonium chloride to form a buffer solution. Sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, and potassium hydroxide are strong bases, which do not form buffer solutions with ammonium chloride. Acetic acid is a weak acid and does not contribute to forming a buffer with ammonium chloride.

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About Acids, Bases and Salts

Acid and base behaviour is explained through the Bronsted-Lowry transfer of protons and the Lewis donation or acceptance of electron pairs. The topic includes pH, pOH, ionisation and water equilibrium, plus salt formation and hydrolysis, where a salt solution may become acidic, basic or neutral.

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