Why equilibrium favours weak acid or weak base

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SUMMARY

The equilibrium of a chemical reaction favors weak acids or weak bases due to their lower dissociation constants (Ka). In the discussion, it is established that using pKa values allows for the determination of which side of the reaction is favored; specifically, the backward reaction is favored when the reactant is the weaker acid. The equilibrium constant (K) can be expressed using the Ka values of both acids, leading to a calculated value of K=10^{-0.6}, confirming that the equilibrium favors the reactants.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of acid-base equilibrium concepts
  • Familiarity with pKa and Ka values
  • Basic knowledge of chemical reaction dynamics
  • Ability to perform logarithmic calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between pKa and Ka values in detail
  • Learn about Le Chatelier's Principle and its application in equilibrium
  • Explore the concept of reaction quotient (Q) in chemical equilibria
  • Investigate the role of temperature and concentration on equilibrium shifts
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and anyone studying acid-base equilibria and reaction dynamics will benefit from this discussion.

Titan97
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Homework Statement


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Which side does the equilibrium favour?

Homework Equations


Equilibrium favours weak acid or weak base (I don't know why :frown:)

The Attempt at a Solution


Using the given pka values, since the reactant is the weaker acid, reactants are favoured. (Backward reaction is favoured).
But why does equilibrium favour weak acid or weak base?
 
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Try to express the K of the reaction using Ka values for both acids.
 
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##k=10^{-0.6}##
 
That's your answer, isn't it?
 
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Yes.
 

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