Question

Can someone please explain to me whats the difference between a buffered and non-buffered solution?

Answer 1

In its simplest form, a buffered solution resists a change in pH. An unbuffered solution does not. For example, a buffered solution of acetic acid and sodium acetate will change pH only slightly when 1 ml of strong acid (HCl for example) is added. But 1 mL HCl added to an unbuffered soltuion may change the pH as much as 4 or 5 units.

A buffered solution consists of a weak acid and a salt of the weak acid OR a weak base and a salt of the weak base