Enter the total amount of acid or base, the initial pH, and the final pH into the calculator to determine the buffer capacity.

Buffer Capacity Formula

The following equation can be used to calculate the buffer capacity of a base of acid reaction. 

B = n / (pH2-pH1)
  • Where B is the buffer capacity
  • n is the amount of acid/base (moles/liter)
  • pH2 is the final pH
  • pH1 is the initial pH

To calculate the buffer capacity, divide the amount of acid or base by the difference in pH.

Buffer Capacity Definition

A buffer capacity is defined as a solution’s ability to resist a change in acidity or pH.

Buffer Capacity Example

How to calculate the buffer capacity?

  1. First, determine the amount of acid/base.

    Measure the moles per liter of acid/base.

  2. Next, determine the final pH/

    Measure the final pH of the solution.

  3. Next, determine the initial pH.

    Calculate the initial pH of the solution.

  4. Finally, calculate the buffer capacity.

    Calculate the buffer capacity using the formula above.

FAQ

What is a buffer capacity?

A buffer capacity is a solution’s ability to resist a change in pH. The higher the buffer capacity, the harder it is to change the acidity of a solution.

How is a buffer capacity calculated?

A buffer capacity is calculated using the total amount of a substance and analyzing the change in pH over time of the solution.