Acids, Bases, and Buffers

Boric Acid, NF (99.5-100.5%)

• weak acid, solid

• mild antiseptic, isotonicity adjustment, buffer

Sulfuric Acid, NF (95-98% w/w)

• dehydrating

• sulfonating agenr

• diprotic

Phosporic Acid, NG (85-88% w/w)

• diluted H3PO4, NF: 9.5-10.5%

• buffers, salt formation of weak bases

• polyprotic

Hydrochloric Acid, NF (36.5-38%]

• diluted HCl, Nf (9.5-10.5%)

• gastric acidifier, salt formation of weak bases

• technical grade: muriatic acid

Nitric Acid, NF (69-71%)

• fumes, oxidizing agenr

• component of aqua regia (3:1 HCl:HNO3)

Strong Ammonia Solution, NF (27-31%)

• alkalinifier, CNS stimulant

• weak base

Sodium Carbonate

• soda ash

• alkalinifier

• HCO3: electrolyte and antacid

Calcium Hydroxide, Ca(OH)2

• slaked lime

• easily absorbs CO2 from air

• soap production, gas trap

Potassium Hydroxide

• hygroscopic, deliquescent

• easily absorbs CO2

• saponifying agent, alkalinifier

Sodium Hydroxide

• caustic soda

• hygroscopic, deliquescent

• easily absorbs CO2

• Saponifying agent, alkalinifier

Buffer systems

• pairs of related chemical compounds capable of resisting large changes

• weak acid and its salt, or weak base and its salt

• should not participate in any chemical reaction

Functions of Buffer system

• pharmaceutical analysis

• maintain pH limits in drug preparations