Question detail
How does the dissociation of a weak acid differ from that of a strong acid?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Acids and bases (A-level only)
Question
- A. Weak acids dissociate completely, while strong acids do not.
- B. Weak acids dissociate partially, while strong acids dissociate completely.
- C. Weak acids have a higher pH than strong acids.
- D. Weak acids do not produce hydrogen ions.
Answer
Weak acids dissociate partially, while strong acids dissociate completely.
Explanation
The key difference is that weak acids only partially dissociate in solution, whereas strong acids fully dissociate, leading to a higher concentration of hydrogen ions in strong acid solutions.
Common mistake
Confusing Weak Acid Behavior
Students often state that weak acids completely dissociate in solution, failing to recognize that they only partially dissociate.
To explain weak-acid behavior, use the concept of partial dissociation. For example, for a weak acid HA, the dissociation can be represented as HA ⇌ H⁺ + A⁻. This indicates that not all HA molecules dissociate, leading to an equilibrium between the undissociated acid and its ions.
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