If pK_(a) of value of acid is 6.4, then what should be the ratio between salt to acid concentration to prepared a buffer solution of pH = 5.4?

Explanation

To determine the ratio of salt to acid concentration for the buffer solution, apply the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation: pH = pKa + log([Salt]/[Acid]). Given pH = 5.4 and pKa = 6.4, subtracting gives: 5.4 = 6.4 + log([Salt]/[Acid]) -1 = log([Salt]/[Acid]). Solving for the ratio: [Salt]/[Acid] = 10-1 = 1/10, or 1:10. Therefore, the correct ratio is 1:10, which supports the buffer solution at a pH of 5.4. The other options either suggest equal concentrations or incorrect ratios that would not achieve the desired pH.