RICE Tables for Weak Acid/Base Reactions: When to Neglect X?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of RICE tables for weak acid/base reactions, specifically focusing on when it is appropriate to neglect the variable "x" in calculations. Participants explore the definitions and applications of RICE tables in the context of equilibrium calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion about the term "RICE" tables and inquire about its meaning and relevance compared to "ICE" tables.
  • One participant mentions the 5% rule as a criterion for neglecting "x" when it is small relative to the initial concentration.
  • A specific example involving the dissociation of HF is provided, illustrating the application of the 5% rule and how to solve for "x" in the context of the equilibrium constant.
  • Another participant reflects on past experiences with stoichiometry and expresses skepticism about the use of acronymic designations like RICE.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the terminology used (RICE vs. ICE) and the relevance of the 5% rule, indicating a mix of perspectives on the topic.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference different educational backgrounds and approaches to teaching chemistry, which may influence their understanding of RICE tables and the neglecting of "x." There is also a mention of the potential evolution of chemistry education over time.

oceanflavored
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when you're doing RICE tables for weak acid/base reactions, when do you neglect x? thanks for ANY input :biggrin:
 
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What are RICE tables? What does "x" mean?
 
I heard these things called "ICE" tables, but not "RICE" tables... further along I have used these to calculate equilibrium in a system. ICE stands for INITIAL CHANGE EQUILIBRIUM. I never used these things when involving acids/bases.

Here is what Wikipedia sais about RICE tables:

An Indonesian rice table (in Dutch, rijsttafel) consists of rice accompanied by several, often spicy side dishes served buffet-style. Popular side dishes include egg rolls, sambals, satay, fish, fruit, vegetables, pickles, and nuts. It is a Dutch colonial adaptation of the Indonesian makan besar, and popular in both Indonesia and the Netherlands.

The number of side dishes depends mainly on the number of guests; in a restaurant, as many as two dozen side dishes may be served. In many restaurants, the side dishes are brought to the guests' table, covering the table with the many small plates.
 
hmmm.
maybe chemistry has changed a bit since you guys were in high school.
because we calculate weak acids/bases by RICE tables: Reaction, Initial, Change, and Equilibrium; like ssb said.
ok;so never mind.
thanks anyways :)
 
oceanflavored said:
hmmm.
maybe chemistry has changed a bit since you guys were in high school.
because we calculate weak acids/bases by RICE tables: Reaction, Initial, Change, and Equilibrium; like ssb said.
ok;so never mind.
thanks anyways :)
I asked because I never heard of any such acronymic designation. Back several years ago, we used stoichiometry, accounting for concentrations, moles, and some intermediate level Algebra.
 
haha. you can neglect x if hte 5% rule is valid
 
for example:

dissociation of HF, Ka = 7.2E-4 HF <-> H+ + F-
I .1 0 0
C -x +x +x
E .1-x x x

Ka = 7.2E-4 = x^2/(.1-x)

- assume 5% rule is valid and x is a very small number in comparison to .1

therefore, 7.2E-4 = x^2/.1

-solve for x, which ends up being about 8.5E-3 which is small in comparison to .1 proving the 5% rule to be valid.

-therefore x can be beglected and the [H+] = x = 8.5E-3
 
We still use ICE tables they haven't meleted yet...haha...
 

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