Henderson

Definition

Henderson refers to the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, which is used to estimate the pH of a buffer solution. It relates pH, the acid dissociation constant ($K_a$), and the concentrations of an acid and its conjugate base.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is $\text{pH} = \text{p}K_a + \log \left( \frac{[A^-]}{[HA]} \right)$.
2. It is derived from the expression for the acid dissociation constant $K_a$.
3. Helps in calculating the pH of buffer solutions by knowing the ratio of the concentrations of conjugate base and weak acid.
4. Useful for understanding how buffers resist changes in pH when small amounts of acids or bases are added.
5. Requires knowledge of $\text{p}K_a$, which is the negative logarithm of the acid dissociation constant.

Review Questions

• What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation?
• How does this equation help in determining the pH of a buffer solution?
• Why is it important to know $\text{p}K_a$ when using this equation?

Related terms

$K_a$ (Acid Dissociation Constant): $K_a$ measures the strength of an acid in solution, specifically its tendency to donate protons.

$\text{p}K_a$: $\text{p}K_a$ is the negative logarithm of the acid dissociation constant, providing a more convenient way to express acidity.

Buffer Solution: A buffer solution contains a weak acid and its conjugate base, resisting changes in pH upon addition of small amounts of acids or bases.