Chapter 15: Problem 235

Complete the following sentence: "The lower the \(\mathrm{p} K_{\mathrm{a}}\), the (stronger/weaker) the acid." \(^{\prime \prime}\) How does this parallel pH?

Short Answer

Expert verified

"The lower the \(pK_a\), the stronger the acid." This parallels pH because both lower \(pH\) and lower \(pK_a\) values indicate a greater degree of acidity.

Step by step solution

1. Define the pKa and pH Scales

To understand the exercise, one must comprehend the meaning of pKa and pH. The pKa value is used to express the acidity of a substance. A lower pKa signifies a stronger acid. On the other hand, the pH scale is a logarithmic scale used to measure the acidity or basicity of a solution. Lower pH values are found in more acidic solutions.

2. Understand the Relationship between pKa and Acid Strength

The pKa of an acid is the negative logarithm of its Ka value (acid dissociation constant). A lower pKa value indicates a larger Ka, meaning the acid dissociates more completely and hence, is stronger.

3. Fill in the Correct Word in the Statement

From the previous explanation, we understand that a lower pKa indicates a stronger acid. So the correct statement is: "The lower the pKa, the stronger the acid."

4. Draw a Parallel to pH

Just like how a lower pKa value represents a stronger acid, a lower pH value also reflects a more acidic solution. This is because pH is also defined as the negative logarithm of the concentration of hydrated hydrogen ions in a solution. A lower pH means a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, and thus a more acidic solution. Therefore, the parallel in pH and pKa is that both lower pH and lower pKa values indicate a greater degree of acidity.

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Complete the following sentence: "The lower the \(\mathrm{p} K_{\mathrm{a}}\), the (stronger/weaker) the acid." \(^{\prime \prime}\) How does this parallel pH?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Define the pKa and pH Scales

2. Understand the Relationship between pKa and Acid Strength

3. Fill in the Correct Word in the Statement

4. Draw a Parallel to pH

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