The Buffers in Household Products Inquiry Lab Solution for AP® Chemistry involves identifying regions in the neutralization of a polyprotic weak acid. Experiment results are used to identify buffering agents in eight household products.
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Many household products contain buffering chemicals, such as citric acid, sodium carbonate, sodium benzoate and phosphates or phosphoric acid to safeguard their activity. Students discover the wide range of buffering action using this advanced inquiry lab activity.
The lab begins with an introductory activity to identify the buffering regions in the neutralization of a polyprotic weak acid. The results provide a model for guided-inquiry design of a procedure to determine the buffering agents in eight different household products, including foods and beverages and over-the-counter drugs. Procedures may include creating titration curves, calculating pKa values and analyzing the buffer capacity and composition. Students may recommend additional consumer products for further inquiry study.
Complete for 24 students working in pairs.
2024 CED Alignment:
Unit 8 - Properties of Buffers
Topic 8.8 - Properties of Buffers
Topic 8.10 - Buffer Capacity
Description of the Lab
Students test the pH stability of household products and lab-prepared buffer solutions by adding acid and base. They compare how buffers resist pH changes, calculate buffer capacity, and relate their findings to the concentrations of conjugate acid-base pairs. This lab gives students real context for equilibrium thinking and pH control.
Learning Objectives
Skills Students Will Learn