Finding the value of the ionization for an acid

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the ionization constant (Ka) for a weak monoprotic acid based on given concentrations in a solution. Participants explore the relationship between the concentrations of hydrogen ions, the acid, and its conjugate base at equilibrium, focusing on the application of relevant formulas and stoichiometric principles.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster (OP) seeks help in determining the value of Ka for a weak monoprotic acid given specific concentrations, expressing confusion about the calculations.
  • One participant notes that Ka represents concentrations at equilibrium and suggests finding the equilibrium concentration based on the dissociation of the acid.
  • A moderator advises against posting complete solutions to homework problems, indicating that such practices may not be helpful.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of starting with the balanced chemical equation to derive the necessary stoichiometric relationships for the calculation.
  • A later reply hints at the relationship between the amount of acid that has dissociated and the concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution, suggesting a method to approach the problem without providing a full solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to use equilibrium concentrations and stoichiometric relationships to solve the problem, but there is no consensus on the specific calculations or the final answer.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not explicitly defined the balanced equation for the dissociation of the acid, which may affect the clarity of the discussion. There are also unresolved assumptions regarding the extent of dissociation and how it relates to the given concentrations.

Who May Find This Useful

Students studying acid-base chemistry, particularly those working on problems involving weak acids and their ionization constants.

mister_mister3
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So this is probably going to look like a ridiculously easy question, but I'm stumped. I have searched for hours looking for a formula to use, and I've given up on my text.

Question: A 0.1 mol/L aqueous solution of weak monoprotic acid has a hydrogen ion concentration of 0.001 mol/L. The value of the ionization, Ka, for this acid is:
a) 10^-6
b) 10^-2
c) 10^-3
d) 10^-5

Now I want to use the formula Ka=[H+] [A-] / [HA] whcih would give me
Ka= [0.001] [A-] / [0.1]. The answer makes no sense. I have no idea where to go next. Can anyone point me in the right direction?

THANKS@!
 
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The Ka represents concentrations at equilibrium. the original concentration of the acid is .100mol/L, find the equilibrium concentration. Assume that .001 mol/L of acid has dissociated.
 
Moderator Note : Nerro, do not post complete solutions to homework problems. That rarely helps.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
To the OP : Start with the balanced equation. You can not do much without the balanced equation down on paper (or in your head). From there, use the stoichiometric proportions (as GCT suggested) to find the value of [A-] at equilibrium.

If the final answer you get is a little off from one of the options, pick the closest choice (there should be one that's within about 2% of your calculation).
 
Since my complete answer is apparently a little over the top (I figured after a week he should have figured it out anyway). Here's a hint: If there is only one acid in solution and a certain amount of H+ is in solution. How much of the acid will have deprotonated to supply those hydrogen ions?
 

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