Acetate Buffer Calculator
This Acetate Buffer Composition Calculator determines the required concentrations of acetic acid and sodium acetate to achieve a target pH and buffer strength. It uses the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation and provides results in %w/v, making it ideal for lab technicians, chemists, and students preparing buffer solutions.
Compute Acetic Acid & Acetate for Desired Buffer pH
Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation Formula
Where:
- $$[\text{A}^-]$$ = concentration of acetate (conjugate base)
- $$[\text{HA}] $$= concentration of acetic acid
- $$\text{p}K_a$$ = acid dissociation constant of acetic acid
To calculate required grams:
\[\text{Acetic Acid (g/100mL)} = \frac{[\text{HA}] \cdot 60.05}{10}\]
\[\text{Sodium Acetate (g/100mL)} = \frac{[\text{A}^-] \cdot 136.08}{10}\]
This tool calculates the mass (%w/v) of acetic acid and sodium acetate required to prepare an acetate buffer at a specified pH and buffer strength (in mM). It’s commonly used in biochemistry and molecular biology protocols. The calculator assumes a pKa of 4.75 for acetic acid. By inputting the desired pH and total buffer strength, the tool estimates the ideal acid/base ratio and converts the concentrations into grams per 100 mL of solution for practical lab use.