What is Handerson – Hasselbalch equation

The quantitative relation between the concentration of a week acid and its conjugate base is described by the following equation:

This is called Handerson – Hasselbalch equation.

The classic description of the acid-base state is based on the Handerson – Hasselbalch equation which is an expression of three variables (P^H, PCO₂, and [HCO₃^-]) and two constants (P^K and S).

Therefore the Handerson – Hasselbalch equation could functionally be written as:

Application of Handerson – Hasselbalch equation:

1.      This equation is used to calculate the P^H of a solution containing a weak acid after the addition of strong acid or base.

2.      This equation may be used in the preparation of buffer solutions of known P^H.

3.      This equation may be used to calculate the degree of dissociation of weak acid – conjugate base pairs at particular P^H.

4.      This equation is used to predict the ionic forms of amino acids, drugs.

Determination of blood partial pressure of CO₂ and concentration of HCO₃.