What is the pH of a 0.085 M solution of a weak base that is 1.6% ionized?

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In summary, the conversation discusses calculating the pH of a 0.085 M aqueous solution of a weak base known to be 1.6 percent ionized. The process involves using the equation %Ionization= ([OH-] derived from base/ initial [base]) x 100% and the formula pOH=-log[OH-]. The correct answer is pH=13.134. There was a mistake in the math, but it was resolved.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



A 0.085 M aqueous solution of a weak base is known to be 1.6 percent ionized. Calculate the pH of the solution.

Homework Equations



%Ionization= ([OH-] derived from base/ initial [base]) x 100%
pOH=-log[OH-}

The Attempt at a Solution



%Ionization= ([OH-] derived from base/ initial [base]) x 100%
1.6%=[OH]/0.085M
[OH]=0.136M

pOH=-log[OH-]
pOH=-log(o.136M)
pOH=0.866
pH+pOH=14, 14-0.866=13.134...

I normally do these without a problem, so I'm assuming it's a stupid mistake. The problem clearly says weak base...Where am I going wrong?

Regards,
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  • #2
Fragment said:
%Ionization= ([OH-] derived from base/ initial [base]) x 100%
1.6%=[OH]/0.085M
[OH]=0.136M

Check your math. You are right - it is a stupid mistake. Not that uncommon though.
 
  • #3
Hahaha, I even double checked it the other night. How lame. Thanks:redface:
 

1. What is a weak base?

A weak base is a substance that has a high pH and does not fully dissociate into ions in solution. It is a type of base that is less basic compared to strong bases, such as sodium hydroxide.

2. What does 0.085 M solution mean?

A 0.085 M solution means that there is 0.085 moles of the weak base dissolved in 1 liter of solution. This concentration is commonly used in scientific experiments and is also referred to as 0.085 molarity.

3. What is the meaning of 1.6% ionized?

1.6% ionized means that only 1.6% of the weak base molecules in the solution have dissociated into ions. The remaining 98.4% of the molecules remain in their original form. This is a characteristic of weak bases, which do not fully dissociate in solution.

4. How is pH related to the ionization of a weak base?

The pH of a solution is a measure of its acidity or basicity. In the case of a weak base, the pH is directly related to the degree of ionization. A higher degree of ionization results in a higher concentration of hydroxide ions, leading to a higher pH. A lower degree of ionization results in a lower pH.

5. What is the pH of a 0.085 M solution of a weak base that is 1.6% ionized?

The pH of a 0.085 M solution of a weak base that is 1.6% ionized is approximately 9.3. This can be calculated using the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation: pH = pKa + log([A-]/[HA]), where pKa is the acid dissociation constant of the weak base, [A-] is the concentration of the conjugate base, and [HA] is the concentration of the weak base. In this case, the pH is higher due to the lower concentration of hydroxide ions resulting from the low degree of ionization.

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