Work through the list without notes. If you cannot do a statement, follow its link, then come back. Guide = study guide; Practice = practice questions.
Understanding
- I can explain why a strong acid or strong base reacts completely with any base or acid it meets, and write the net ionic equation. (Guide: “React first”; Practice Q2)
- I can explain why neutralising a weak acid gives pH above 7 and neutralising a weak base gives pH below 7. (Guide: Worked examples 2(b) and 3(b); Practice Q2, Q6(b))
- I can say what a buffer contains and decide whether a mixture is one. (Guide: “What makes a buffer”; Practice Q3, Q7)
- I can write the equilibrium for a weak acid mixed with a weak base and explain why it does not go to completion. (Guide: “Weak acid with weak base”)
Calculation
- I can find the pH when a strong acid or strong base is in excess, using the total volume. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice Q1, Q6(c))
- I can use a before/after mole table to find what is left after mixing. (Practice Q5)
- I can calculate the pH of a buffer made by partial neutralisation, with the ratio the right way up. (Guide: Worked example 2(a); Practice Q5, Q7(c))
- I can calculate the pH at equal moles using K_b of A⁻ or K_a of HB⁺. (Guide: Worked example 3(b); Practice Q6(a), Q7(b))
- I can calculate K for a weak acid with a weak base from two pK_a values. (Practice Q4)
Reasoning
- I can evaluate a claim that “equal moles means neutral”. (Practice Q6(b))
- I can choose the amount of strong base needed to make a buffer at a chosen pH, and explain why a strong acid cannot do the job. (Practice Q7)
- I can predict which side a weak acid and weak base equilibrium favours by comparing acid strengths. (Practice Q4)
All ticked? Move on to Topic 8.5, Acid-Base Titrations, or return to the course roadmap.