Solve Ka: Percent Ionization of Formic Acid - 2.85%

In summary, Solve Ka is a scientific calculation that determines the percent ionization of a weak acid, such as formic acid with a concentration of 2.85%. It is important to know the percent ionization of formic acid because it indicates the strength of the acid and its ability to dissociate into ions in a solution. The calculation for percent ionization involves dividing the concentration of dissociated ions by the initial concentration of the acid and multiplying by 100. The percent ionization of formic acid can be affected by factors such as temperature, concentration, and the presence of other ions in the solution. Solve Ka can also be used for other weak acids as long as their Ka value and concentration are known.
  • #1
George3
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Homework Statement


What concentration of formic acid would give an aqueous solution in which 2.85 percent of the formic acid molecules are ionized? Assume that Ka for formic acid is 1.80E-4 .


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



X^2 / .0285 - X = 1.8E-4
X = .00226
M = .0285 - .00226 = .0262M
This is wrong. Any ideas?
 
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  • #2
Let X be the concentration of formic acid before dissociation. 0.0285X represents what?

Can you get there from here?
 

1. What is Solve Ka?

Solve Ka is a scientific calculation used to determine the percent ionization of a weak acid, in this case formic acid with a concentration of 2.85%.

2. Why is it important to know the percent ionization of formic acid?

The percent ionization of formic acid is important because it helps us understand the strength of the acid and its ability to dissociate into ions in a solution.

3. How is the percent ionization of formic acid calculated using Solve Ka?

The percent ionization of formic acid is calculated by dividing the concentration of the dissociated ions by the initial concentration of the acid, then multiplying by 100 to get the percentage.

4. What factors can affect the percent ionization of formic acid?

The percent ionization of formic acid can be affected by factors such as temperature, concentration, and the presence of other ions in the solution.

5. Can Solve Ka be used for other weak acids besides formic acid?

Yes, Solve Ka can be used for any weak acid as long as its Ka value is known and the concentration of the acid is given.

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