chemCD – Acids, Bases and pH

Thornton, R. M. The Chemistry of Life, Biology Version, 2/E CD ROM, Benjamin Cummings, 2003.

Objective:

To explain in a short essay the meaning and calculation of pH and the importance of buffers and maintaining pH at critical values in the body, at the level of 85% proficiency for each student.

In order to achieve this objective, you will need to be able to:

1. Define acidity and alkalinity, and explain how hydrogen ions are carried in solution.
2. Explain the meaning and calculation of pH.
3. Explain the difference between strong and weak acids and between strong and weak bases.
4. Explain why hydrogen ion concentration is important in life.
5. Explain what buffers do, and why they are needed in life.

© David G. Ward, Ph.D.  Last modified by wardd 23 May, 2006