What question did this study set out to answer?

To improve understanding of acid-base calculations among students in general, organic, and biological chemistry courses.

March 28, 2026

Acid-Base Calculations with a Flowchart of pValues

Key Points

To improve understanding of acid-base calculations among students in general, organic, and biological chemistry courses.
Developed a flowchart for solving acid-base calculations.
Expressed acid-base concentrations in pValues.
Included a logarithm plot to facilitate calculations.
Students can solve common pH problems more easily using the flowchart.
The flowchart reduces the need for calculators.
Improved conceptual understanding of acid-base relationships in chemistry.

Abstract

Acid/base calculations are a particularly difficult subject for students enrolled in general, organic and biological chemistry (GOB) courses. Yet, a sound conceptual grasp of this topic is essential to understanding the chemistry of many organic and biological compounds. This paper presents a flowchart to solve acid/base calculations in the context of GOB courses. Acid-base concentrations as well as any other quantity, X, are expressed in terms of pValues (i.e., pX = – log X). Using the flowchart provided, students can solve all common pH problems following a top-down sequence of questions that leads to the appropriate equation. The use of calculators is made unnecessary by an accompanying and user-friendly logarithm plot.

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Acid-Base Calculations with a Flowchart of pValues

Key Points

Abstract

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