Question detail
What is the significance of the equilibrium constant (Ka) for weak acids?
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. It indicates the strength of the acid.
- B. It measures the concentration of the acid.
- C. It shows the temperature dependence of the acid.
- D. It represents the total amount of acid in solution.
Answer
It indicates the strength of the acid.
Explanation
The equilibrium constant (Ka) quantifies the strength of a weak acid; a higher Ka value indicates a stronger acid that dissociates more in solution.
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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