1.2: Water; life solvent

Why would it be inaccurate to say that a buffer is a solution that maintains a constant pH?

A buffer solution is one that maintains a relatively constant pH when H+ or OH- are added. However, the pH can change slightly. It remains relatively constant not completely constant

hydrophobic molecules

non-polar molecules that are not strongly attracted to water

hydrophilic molecules

polar or changed molecules that are strongly attracted to water

specific heat

the amount of thermal energy required to raise the temperature of a given quantity of a substance by 1ºC

autoionization

the process in which a molecule spontaneously dissociates into ions

What determines whether an acid or a base is classified as strong or weak? Explain.

Acids when placed in aqueous solution cause the production of hydronium ions, increasing H+ concentration and lowering the pH. Bases cause the production of hydroxide ions in aqueous solution, increasing OH- concentration, and raising the pH

How do buffers in ur cells help to keep ur body functioning properly?

Buffers help to maintain proper pH levels in different cells in the body by being able to absorb excess hydronium or hydroxide ions. Buffers use systems of weak acids or weak bases to accomplish this.

How does polarity influence water's role as a solvent?

Polar water molecules can surround polar biological molecules or ions, thus dissolving them.

Explain how the polarity of water accounts for its lattice structure.

The polarity of water helps the formation of hydrogen bonds among water molecules. Hydrogen bonds create the lattice structure of wate

How does the structure of water account for its properties, such as its boiling point, surface tension, & adhesion?

Water's lattice structure is stable which leads to a high specific heat of water. High specific heat gives water a high boiling point. The lattice structure keeps molecules close causing high surface tension. Water has the ability to form H-bonds with other polar molecules, which gives water its adhesion properties

Potassium bromide KBr, is an ionic compound. Describe what happens to its ions when it is dissolved in water.

When potassium bromide, KBr, is dissolved in water it dissociates into potassium ions, K+ and bromine ions, Br- ions. These ions are enveloped by water molecules to form a surface coat.

buffer

a chemical that compensates for pH changes in a solution by accepting or donating H+ ions