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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct expression for the acid dissociation constant (Ka) of a weak acid HA in water?
A
Ka = [H+][HA]/[A-]
B
Ka = [HA]/[H+][A-]
C
Ka = [H+][A-]/[HA]
D
Ka = [A-]/[H+][HA]
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of acid dissociation constant (Ka): It is a measure of the strength of an acid in solution, specifically how well an acid dissociates into its ions in water.
Write the general dissociation equation for a weak acid HA in water: HA ⇌ H⁺ + A⁻.
According to the law of mass action, the equilibrium expression for this dissociation is given by the concentration of the products over the concentration of the reactants.
Set up the expression for Ka: Ka = ([H⁺][A⁻]) / [HA]. This expression shows that Ka is the product of the concentrations of the dissociated ions divided by the concentration of the undissociated acid.
Verify the expression: Compare the given options with the derived expression to identify the correct one, which is Ka = [H⁺][A⁻]/[HA].