What pKa value is used in the Henderson-Hasselbalch calculation in the example?

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Multiple Choice

What pKa value is used in the Henderson-Hasselbalch calculation in the example?

Explanation:
The main idea is that the Henderson–Hasselbalch equation uses the pKa of the weak acid in the buffer to relate pH to the ratio of conjugate base to acid: pH = pKa + log([A-]/[HA]). In the given example, the data (the observed pH and the shown base/acid ratio) are consistent with a pKa of 6.1. If the pH closely matches the pKa when the ratio is around 1, that points to the pKa being 6.1. Using a different pKa value (6.0, 6.2, or 6.3) would not align with the reported pH and ratio in the calculation, producing a mismatch. So 6.1 is the pKa that makes the Henderson–Hasselbalch calculation fit the example data.

The main idea is that the Henderson–Hasselbalch equation uses the pKa of the weak acid in the buffer to relate pH to the ratio of conjugate base to acid: pH = pKa + log([A-]/[HA]). In the given example, the data (the observed pH and the shown base/acid ratio) are consistent with a pKa of 6.1. If the pH closely matches the pKa when the ratio is around 1, that points to the pKa being 6.1. Using a different pKa value (6.0, 6.2, or 6.3) would not align with the reported pH and ratio in the calculation, producing a mismatch. So 6.1 is the pKa that makes the Henderson–Hasselbalch calculation fit the example data.

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