The Relative Strength of Acids and Bases

Question 1

Define relative strength (of an acid or base)

Answer 1

The extent to which ionisation occurs in water

Question 2

In strong acids/bases, ionisation is ???

Answer 2

Complete, no ionisation constant

Question 3

In weak acids/bases, ionisation is ???

Answer 3

Incomplete / at equilibrium. Ionisation constant exists

Question 4

How do you calculate the ionisation constant of an acid?

Answer 4

HA + H2O <-> H3O+ + A-

[H3O+][A-] / [HA]

Question 5

The larger the ionisation constant, the ???? the acid or base?

Answer 5

Stronger / less weak
Ka or Kb for strong acids/bases is approx. infinity

Question 6

What is the relationship between Ka, Kb and Kw?

Answer 6

Ka x Kb = Kw
That is, Ka x Kb = 1.0x10^-14

Question 7

What is the relationship between Ka and Kb?

Answer 7

Inverse proportion. As one increases, the other decreases

Question 8

What is a monoprotic acid?

Answer 8

Only donates one H+

Question 9

What is a diprotic base?

Answer 9

Accepts two H+ and has stepwise ionisation

Question 10

What is a triprotic acid?

Answer 10

Donates up to three H+ and has stepwise ionisation