Question

A buffer is prepared by mixing hypochlorous acid ( HClO ) and sodium hypochlorite ( NaClO ) . If a strong base, such as NaOH , is added to this buffer, which buffer component neutralizes the additional hydroxide ions ( OH − ) ? ClO − HClO Write a balanced chemical equation for the reaction of the selected buffer component and the hydroxide ion ( OH − ) . Do not include physical states.

Answer 1

Answer: The balanced chemical equation is written below.

Explanation:

We are given:

A weak acid that is hypochlorous acid (HClO) and basic salt that is sodium hypochlorite (NaClO)

When a strong base is added to the buffer, the hydroxide ion will be neutralized by hydrogen ions from the acid.

So, the buffer component that neutralizes the additional hydroxide ions in the solution is HClO

The chemical equation for the neutralization of hydroxide ion with acid follows:

$HClO+OH^-\rightarrow H_2O+ClO^-$

Hence, the balanced chemical equation is written below.