Water, pH, and Buffers Flashcards
1
Q
Define pH.
A
pH is a measure of hydrogen ion concentration and a measure of acidity/alkalinity.
2
Q
Define K(a)
A
K(a) is the acid dissociation constant and represents the degree to which an acid separates into H+ and A-. It is a measure of acid strength.
3
Q
Define the relationship between pH, K(a), pKa, and acid strength.
A
High K(a) = low pKa = low pH = high acid strength
4
Q
What is a zwitterion?
A
A molecule that has both positive and negative charges.
5
Q
What is an amphoteric molecule?
A
A molecule that can behave as both an acid and a base.
