Solubility and Equilibrium question

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The molar solubility of Cu(OH)2 in a 0.87 M NH3 solution can be calculated using the solubility product constant (Ksp) of 2.2 × 10^–20 and the complexation reaction Cu2+ + 4 NH3 ⇌ Cu(NH3)42+ with an equilibrium constant (K) of 5.0 × 10^13. The reaction dynamics indicate that the presence of NH3 increases the solubility of Cu(OH)2 due to the formation of the Cu(NH3)42+ complex. An ICE table approach is essential for determining the concentrations of Cu2+ and NH3 at equilibrium, factoring in the complexation reaction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of solubility product constants (Ksp)
  • Knowledge of complexation reactions and equilibrium constants
  • Ability to construct and interpret ICE tables
  • Familiarity with the behavior of hydroxides in solution
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the molar solubility of Cu(OH)2 in the presence of NH3 using Ksp and K values
  • Learn about the effects of complexation on solubility in aqueous solutions
  • Study the principles of chemical equilibrium and Le Chatelier's principle
  • Explore the role of hydroxide ions in complexation reactions
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, particularly those studying physical chemistry or analytical chemistry, as well as educators looking for practical examples of solubility and equilibrium concepts.

TeenieBopper
Messages
27
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Calculate the molar solubility of Cu(OH)2, Ksp = 2.2 × 10^–20, in 0.87 M NH3. Don't forget to use the complexation reaction Cu2+ + 4 NH3 ⇌ Cu(NH3)42+, K = 5.0 × 10^13.


Homework Equations


Ksp=[A]^m^n
Keq=[product]/[reactants]


The Attempt at a Solution



I wasn't sure where to begin. I figured that because Cu reacts with NH3, more of the Cu(OH)2 would "disappear" thus having a higher solubility. So I did an ICE table for Cu2+ + 4 NH3 ⇌ Cu(NH3)4 and set it up as x/(.87-x)^5=5 * 10^13, but the answers were non-real. I'm at a loss for where to begin, now. I know I need to do something with the Cu + NH3 reaction, too (otherwise, why would we even be given that information?), but I don't really know what.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Try to assume concentration of ammonia doesn't change. Note that OH- concentration is a function of ammonia concentration as well.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
11K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 48 ·
2
Replies
48
Views
9K
Replies
8
Views
3K