Chemistry

Chemistry

Problem

A 0.10 M solution of weak acid X is 1.0 % ionized, whereas an equally concentrated solution of weak acid Y is 5.0 % ionized under identical conditions. Which statement about their acid-dissociation constants is most accurate? a) Ka(X)K_a(\text{X}) equals Ka(Y)K_a(\text{Y}) because both acids have the same initial molarity, and KaK_a depends on concentration rather than percent ionization. b) Ka(X)K_a(\text{X}) is larger than Ka(Y)K_a(\text{Y}) because, at equal concentration, a lower percent ionization corresponds to a larger equilibrium constant. c) Ka(Y)K_a(\text{Y}) is larger than Ka(X)K_a(\text{X}) because a greater fraction of Y molecules dissociate. d) Ka(Y)K_a(\text{Y}) is only about five times larger than Ka(X)K_a(\text{X}) because Ka≈αCK_a\approx\alpha C for dilute solutions, making it directly proportional to percent ionization.

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