Henderson-Hasselbalch (Buffer pH)

pH = pKa + log([A⁻]/[HA]). Predict buffer pH from acid + conjugate base concentrations.

Inputs

Acetic acid: 4.76. Carbonic: 6.35.

Result

pH
4.7600
[A⁻]/[HA] = 1.0000. Optimal buffer (within 1 pH of pKa).
  • pKa4.76
  • [A⁻]0.1 M
  • [HA]0.1 M
  • [A⁻]/[HA]1.000000
  • log([A⁻]/[HA])0.0000
  • pH4.760000

Step-by-step

  1. pH = pKa + log([A⁻]/[HA]).
  2. = 4.76 + log(0.1/0.1) = 4.76 + 0.0000 = 4.7600.

How to use this calculator

  • Enter pKa of weak acid.
  • Enter [A⁻] and [HA].
  • Read pH.

About this calculator

Henderson-Hasselbalch: pH = pKa + log([A⁻]/[HA]). When [A⁻] = [HA], pH = pKa exactly. A buffer's "optimal" range is pH = pKa ± 1 (ratio 1:10 to 10:1). Below or above, buffering capacity drops dramatically. Used in biology (blood ~7.4, buffered by carbonate), pharmaceuticals (drug formulation), brewing, and pool chemistry.

Frequently asked

Weak acid + conjugate base buffer. Strong acids/bases need ICE tables. Approximation valid when both [A⁻] and [HA] >> [H⁺] (works for >0.001 M typically).

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