How Does NaOH Affect the Degree of Dissociation of Triethylamine?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the degree of dissociation of triethylamine in a solution when mixed with sodium hydroxide (NaOH). It includes aspects of homework problem-solving and the application of ionization constants in a chemical equilibrium context.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation for the degree of dissociation of triethylamine in a 0.1 M solution mixed with 0.01 M NaOH, using the ionization constant of 6.4 x 10^(-5).
  • The participant notes an initial concentration of triethylamine and sets up an equation involving the concentrations of triethylammonium and hydroxide ions, but initially arrives at an incorrect degree of dissociation.
  • Another participant points out that the first participant forgot to include the concentration of triethylamine in the denominator of their calculation, leading to the error.
  • Subsequent replies confirm that the correction leads to an agreement with the book's answer, indicating that the initial confusion was due to a minor mistake in the calculation process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree on the final answer after the correction is made, but the initial misunderstanding highlights a moment of confusion regarding the calculation steps.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a specific homework problem and the reliance on the correct application of the ionization constant and equilibrium expressions. The initial error in calculation underscores the importance of careful mathematical reasoning in chemistry.

Krushnaraj Pandya
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Homework Statement


The ionization constant of ## {(C_2 H_5)}_3 {N}## is 6.4 x 10^(-5). Calculate degree of dissociation in its 0.1 M solution when it is mixed with 0.01 M NaOH solution.

2. The attempt at a solution
the compound gives ##{(C_2 H_5)}_3 {NH+}## and ##OH-##. C is initial concentration of compound=0.1 M and x as degree of dissociation- C*x is final concentration of ##{(C_2 H_5)}_3 {NH+}## and since NaOH is strong electrolyte 0.01 M OH- is present. Since x is small compared to 0.01 we take OH concentration as 0.01. Now (C*x)(0.01)=K. placing 0.1 as C we get x as 6.4 x 10^(-2). However the answer is 6.4 x 10^(-3). Where am I wrong?
 
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Never mind. I totally forgot to write C in denominator. Silly me.
 
You are saying you now get the same answer as the book? I got the same answer so the book appears to be right. :oldsmile: Question phrasing a bit loose.
 
epenguin said:
You are saying you now get the same answer as the book? I got the same answer so the book appears to be right. :oldsmile: Question phrasing a bit loose.
yes, I did- thank you. I was just making a really silly mistake.
 

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