Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

This Table of
Contents is
1 Acids and Base Definitions clickable!
2 Strong and Weak Acids
4 Strong and Weak Bases
5 Acid-Base Neutralization Reactions
6 Conjugate Acids and Bases
9 Amphoteric Species
10 Autoionization
11 What is pH?
12 Significant Figure Rules for pH and pOH
13 Finding the pH of a Strong Acid
15 Finding the [H 3 O + ] of a Strong Acid
16 Finding the pOH of a Strong Base
17 Finding the [OH - ] of a Strong Base
18 Finding pH from [OH - ]
19 Finding the pH of a Strong Base
21 Finding [OH - ] from pH
22 Finding pH and pOH
23 Finding [OH - ] from [H 3 O + ]
24 Finding [H 3 O + ] from [OH - ]
25 Summary of All Formulas
26 What is K a ?
27 What is K b ?
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
28 How to Build an ICE Table
31 How to Use the 5% Rule
32 When to Use the Quadratic Formula
34 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
48 Finding the pH of a Weak Base
58 Main Steps for Finding pH of Acids and Bases
59 Finding K a and K b
64 Percent Ionization
74 Relationship between pKa and pKb
77 Finding Mass from pH
78 pH and Ideal Gas Law Question
81 Finding Volume using Density
83 Properties of Anions and Salts
84 Properties of Cations and Salts
85 Classifying Salts as Acidic, Basic or Neutral
91 Determining Acid Strength
94 Finding pH of a Solution with an Anion
98 Mixtures of Acids

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

 Acid & Base Definitions
There are two different definitions; the Arrhenius and Brønsted-Lowry.

The Brønsted-Lowry is the best definition used today.

Arrhenius Acid: produces H + ions in solution.

example: HBr H + + Br -

Arrhenius Base: produces OH - ions in solution.

example: NaOH Na + + OH -

KNOW THIS ONE

Brønsted-Lowry Acid: H + (proton) donor.

example: HCl + NH 3 NH4+ + Cl -

Acid Loses H +

Brønsted-Lowry Base: H + (proton) acceptor.

example: HCl + NH 3 NH +4 + Cl -
Base Gains H +

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

1
 Strong & Weak Acids
Strong Acids: Completely dissociate in solution.

example: HBr H + + Br -

Single arrow means complete dissociation

(Completely splits apart into separate ions).

Weak Acids: Partially dissociate in solution.

example: HC 2 H 3 O 2 H + + C 2 H 3 O-2

Double arrow means partial dissociation

(Partially splits apart into separate ions).

Note:

All the below words refer to the acid splitting apart into its separate
ions. Ions are elements with a charge.

• Dissociate • Dissociation
• Ionize • Ionization

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

2
 Strong & Weak Acids
STRONG ACIDS LIST
Chemical Formula Name Dissociation

HCl Hydrochloric acid HCl H + + Cl -

HBr Hydrobromic acid HBr H + + Br -

HI Hydroiodic acid HI H+ + I-

HClO4 Perchloric acid HClO4 H + + ClO4-

HClO 3 Chloric acid HClO 3 H + + ClO 3-

2-
H 2 SO4 Sulfuric acid H 2 SO4 2 H + + SO4

HNO 3 Nitric acid HNO 3 H + + NO 3-

WEAK ACIDS LIST

Chemical Formula Name Dissociation
HNO 2 Nitrous acid HNO 2 H + + NO - 2
H 2 SO 3 Sulfurous acid H 2 SO 3 H + + HSO 3-
HClO 2 Chlorous acid HClO 2 H + + ClO -2
HClO Hypochlorous acid HClO H + + ClO -
HC 2 H 3 O 2 Acetic acid HC 2 H 3 O 2 H+ + C H O-
2 3 2
H 2 CO 3 Carbonic acid H 2 CO 3 -
H + + HCO 3
H 3 PO4 Phosphoric acid H 3 PO4 H + + H PO -
2 4
HF Hydrofluoric acid HF H+ + F-
H2S Hydrosulfuric acid H2S H + + HS -
HCN Hydrocyanic acid HCN H + + CN -
HCOOH Formic acid HCOOH H + + HCOO -
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
3
 Strong & Weak Bases
Strong Bases: Completely dissociate in solution.
STRONG BASES LIST
Chemical Formula Name Dissociation

LiOH lithium hydroxide LiOH Li + + OH -

NaOH sodium hydroxide NaOH Na + + OH -

KOH potassium hydroxide KOH K + + OH -

RbOH rubidium hydroxide RbOH Rb + + OH -

CsOH cesium hydroxide CsOH Cs + + OH -

Ca(OH) 2 calcium hydroxide Ca(OH) 2 Ca 2 + + 2 OH -

Sr(OH) 2 strontium hydroxide Sr(OH) 2 Sr 2 + + 2 OH -

Ba(OH) 2 barium hydroxide Ba(OH) 2 Ba 2 + + 2 OH -

TIP: Strong bases are typically groups 1 & 2 metals combined with OH -

Weak Bases: Partially dissociate in solution.

WEAK BASES LIST

Chemical Formula Name Dissociation

NH 3 Ammonia NH 3 + H 2 O NH4+ + OH -

C 6 H 5 NH 2 Aniline C 6 H 5 NH 2 + H 2 O C 6 H 5 NH+3 + OH -

CH 3 NH 2 Methylamine CH 3 NH 2 + H 2 O CH 3 NH+3 + OH -

C5H5N Pyridine C5H5N + H2O C 5 H 5 NH + + OH -

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

4
Acid-Base Neutralization Reactions
Acid Base Neutralization Reactions Consist of:
Acid + Base Salt + Water

Predicting Products:
HCl + NaOH • Combine the inner elements, starting with the
metal (+ charge) then the nonmetal (- charge).
These form an ionic compound which is the Salt.
Na + Cl - • Combine the outer elements, these form water.
H + OH -
Balanced Chemical Equation: HCl + NaOH NaCl + H 2 O
Acid Base Salt Water

Balance Charges
H 2 SO4 + LiOH
Li + SO2 -
4
Li + SO42 -
Li + SO42 -
Li 2 SO4
H + OH -

Balanced Chemical Equation: H 2 SO4 + 2 LiOH Li 2 SO4 + 2 H 2 O

Balance Charges
H 3 PO4 + KOH
K + PO3 -
4
K + PO43 -
K + PO43 - K 3 PO4
H + OH -

Balanced Chemical Equation: H 3 PO4 + 3 KOH K 3 PO4 + 3 H 2 O

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

5
 Conjugate Acids & Bases
Conjugate Acid-Base Pairs:
A pair of substances that differs only by 1 H + .

HA + B HB + + A -
Acid + Base Conjugate Acid + Conjugate Base

Predict the conjugate acid-base pairs for HCl + NH 3 .

Acid donates H + to Base.

Step
1

HCl + NH 3
Base accepts H + and becomes new conjugate acid.
Step
2

HCl + NH 3 NH+4
Acid loses H + and becomes new conjugate base.
Step
3

HCl + NH 3 NH+4 + Cl -

Acids have conjugate base pairs Base gains H +

and Bases have conjugate acid pairs.
Base Conjugate Acid
HCl + NH 3 NH 4+ + Cl -
Acid Conjugate Base

Acid loses H +

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

6
 Conjugate Acids & Bases
Predict the conjugate acid-base pairs for HBr + H 2 O.

Acid donates H + to Base.

Step
1

HBr + H 2 O
Base accepts H + and becomes new conjugate acid.
Step
2

HBr + H 2 O H3O+
Acid loses H + and becomes new conjugate base.
Step
3

HBr + H 2 O H 3 O + + Br -
Acid Base Conjugate Acid Conjugate Base

Predict the conjugate acid-base pairs for H 2 SO4 + H 2 O.

Step
1
Acid donates H + to Base.

H 2 SO4 + H 2 O
Step
2 Base accepts H + and becomes new conjugate acid.

H 2 SO4 + H 2 O H3O+
Step
3
Acid loses H + and becomes new conjugate base.

H 2 SO4 + H 2 O H 3 O + + HSO4-
Acid Base Conjugate Acid Conjugate Base

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

7
 Conjugate Acids & Bases
Finding the Conjugate Acid from a Base:
Base gains 1 H + to become the conjugate acid.

B HB +
Base Conjugate Acid Charges:
Gaining an H + means
Base gains H + you add +1 to the charge.

CN - HCN CN - HCN
-1 Charge + 1 H + = 0 (No Charge)
Base Conjugate Acid
CO 32 - HCO 3-
-2 Charge + 1 H + = -1 Charge
Base gains H +
2-
CO 3 HCO 3-
Base Conjugate Acid

Finding the Conjugate Base from an Acid:

Acid loses 1 H + to become the conjugate base.

HA A-
Acid Conjugate Base Charges:
Losing an H + means you
Acid loses H + subtract 1 from the charge.

HNO 2 NO-2 HNO 2 NO-2

0 (No Charge) - 1 H + = -1 Charge
Acid Conjugate Base
HSO4- SO42 -
Acid loses H + -1 Charge - 1 H + = -2 Charge
2-
HSO4- SO4
Acid Conjugate Base

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

8
 Amphoteric Species
Amphoteric Definition:
• A substance that can act as either an acid or a base.
• Either loses or gains a H + .

Common Amphoteric Species:

• H O and HCO -
2 3

HCO -3 acts as an acid while H 2 O acts as a base.

2-
HCO 3- + H 2 O H 3 O + + CO 3
Acid Base Conjugate Acid Conjugate Base

HCO -3 acts as a base while H 2 O acts as an acid.

H 2 O + HCO 3- H 2 CO 3 + OH -
Acid Base Conjugate Acid Conjugate Base

H 2 O acts as an acid.

H 2 O + NH 3 NH4+ + OH -
Acid Base Conjugate Acid Conjugate Base

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

9
 Autoionization
Autoionization:

• Occurs when a substance reacts with itself.

• Water can react with itself since it can act as an acid and a base.

Water reacting with itself:

H2O + H2O H 3 O + + OH -
Acid Base Conjugate Acid Conjugate Base

Ion-Product Constant of Water (K w ).

• The equilibrium constant for water when it’s reacting with itself.

K w = [H 3 O + ] x [OH - ] OR K w = [H + ] x [OH - ]

• Numerical value.
Note:
K w = 1.0 x 10 - 14 Has no units
[H 3 O + ] and [H + ]
• We can set everything equal to each other. both refer to the
concentration of acid
K w = 1.0 x 10 - 14 = [H 3 O + ] x [OH - ]

• This can also mean:

[H 3 O + ] = 1.0 x 10 - 7
In a neutral solution at 25°C
[OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 7

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

10
 What is pH?
pH:
• A number that represents how acidic, basic or neutral a solution is.
• Typical pH scale is between 0-14.
• Measures concentration of H 3 O + .

pH Ion Concentration
[H 3 O + ] > [OH - ]
pH < 7 More acid than base
pH = 0 - 6 [H 3 O + ] > 1.0 x 10 - 7
[OH - ] < 1.0 x 10 - 7

pH Ion Concentration
[H 3 O + ] = [OH - ]
Equal amounts of acid and base
pH = 7 [H 3 O + ] = 1.0 x 10 - 7
[OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 7

pH Ion Concentration
[H 3 O + ] < [OH - ]
pH > 7 More base than acid
pH = 8 - 14 [H 3 O + ] < 1.0 x 10 - 7
[OH - ] > 1.0 x 10 - 7

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

11
Significant Figure Rules for pH & pOH
There are specific sig fig rules when finding the pH, pOH and concentration.

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

Concentration to pH or pOH:
Given: [H 3 O + ] = 4.1 x 10 -4 M

2 sig figs = 2 decimal places

pH = 3.39

The amount of decimal places the pH or pOH has equals the number of
sig figs the concentration will have.

pH or pOH to Concentration:
Given: pH = 3.39

2 decimal places = 2 sig figs

[H 3 O + ] = 4.1 x 10 -4 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

12
 Finding the pH of a Strong Acid
• A Strong acid tells us the [H 3 O + ] or [H + ].

Formula
pH = -log [H 3 O + ] or pH = -log [H + ]

[H 3 O + ] to pH:

What is the pH of a 0.11 M solution of HCl?

Step
1 Since we are given the concentration of HCl which is a strong
acid, then that really means we are given [H 3 O + ].

Given: [HCl] = 0.11 M = [H 3 O + ] = 0.11 M

Plug [H 3 O + ] into pH formula.

Step
2

pH = -log [H O + ] 3
pH = -log [0.11]
pH = 0.9586073148

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

Step
3

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 0.11
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pH = 0.9586073148
Round up to 2 decimal places
pH = 0.96

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

13
 Finding the pH of a Strong Acid
Trick Question
Calculate the pH of a 0.25 M H 2 SO4 solution.

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1
Given: 0.25 M H 2 SO4 Find: pH

Note
We cannot just plug in the acid concentration into the pH formula.
[H O + ] ≠ [H SO ] 3 2 4
This is because there's twice the amount of acid concentration.
The 2 subscript on H 2 SO4 tells us 2 hydrogens dissociate.
2 [H O + ] = [H SO ] 3 2 4

Multiply 2 by the acid concentration.

Step
2

[H 3 O + ] = 2(0.25)
[H 3 O + ] = 0.50 M

Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].

Step
3

pH = -log [0.50]
pH = 0.3010299957

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

Step
4

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 2 SO4 ] = 0.25 M

2 sig figs = 2 decimal places

pH = 0.3010299957

Round to 2 decimal places

pH = 0.30
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
14
Finding the [H 3 O + ] of a Strong Acid
Formula
[H 3 O + ] = 10 - pH or [H + ] = 10 - pH
pH to [H 3 O + ]

What is the [H 3 O + ] of a solution with a pH of 5.6?

Using the formula, plug in pH and solve for [H 3 O + ].

Step
1

Given: pH = 5.6
[H 3 O + ] = 10 - pH
[H O + ] = 10 - 5.6
3
[H O + ] = 2.511886432 x 10 - 6
3

Round to the correct amount of sigs figs

Step
2

The amount of decimal places the pH or pOH has equals the number of
sig figs the concentration will have.

pH = 5.6
1 decimal place = 1 sig fig
[H 3 O + ] = 2.511886432 x 10 - 6
Round up to 1 sig fig

[H 3 O + ] = 3 x 10 - 6

Make sure units are in molarity (M) since this is the

Step
3
concentration of acid.
[H 3 O + ] = 3 x 10 - 6 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

15
 Finding the pOH of a Strong Base
• pOH measures the concentration of base, [OH - ].
• A strong base tells us the [OH - ].

Formula
pOH = -log [OH - ]
[OH - ] to pOH

Calculate the pOH of a 0.025 M solution of NaOH.

Since we are given the concentration of NaOH which is a strong base,

Step
1
then that really means we are given [OH - ].
Given: [NaOH] = 0.025 M = [OH - ] = 0.025 M

Plug [OH - ] into pOH formula.

Step
2

pOH = -log [OH - ]

pOH = -log [0.025]
pOH = 1.602059991
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
3

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[OH - ] = 0.025
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places

pOH = 1.602059991
Round to 2 decimal places

pOH = 1.60
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
16
Finding the [OH - ] of a Strong Base
Formula
[OH - ] = 10 - pOH
pOH to [OH - ]

Calculate the [OH - ] of a solution with a pOH of 2.1.

Find [OH - ] by plugging in pOH into the formula.

Step
1

Given: pOH = 2.1

[OH - ] = 10 - pOH
[OH - ] = 10 - 2.1
[OH - ] = 0.0079432823
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
2

The amount of decimal places the pH or pOH has equals the number of
sig figs the concentration will have.

pOH = 2.1
1 decimal place = 1 sig fig
[OH - ] = 0.0079432823
Round up to 1 sig fig
[OH - ] = 0.008

Make sure units are in molarity (M) since this is the concentration
Step
3

of base.
[OH - ] = 0.008 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

17
 Finding pH from [OH - ]
Formulas
pOH = -log [OH - ] pH + pOH = 14
[OH - ] to pH

Calculate the pH of a 0.0020 M KOH solution.

Since we are given the concentration of KOH, which is a strong

Step
1

base, then that really means we are given [OH - ].

Given: [KOH] = 0.0020 M = [OH - ] = 0.0020 M
Find pOH by plugging [OH - ] into pOH formula.
Step
2

pOH = -log [OH - ]

pOH = -log [0.0020]
pOH = 2.698970004
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
3

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[OH - ] = 0.0020
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pOH = 2.698970004
Round up to 2 decimal places
pOH = 2.70
Step
4 Find pH by plugging in pOH into the formula.
pH + pOH = 14
pH + 2.70 = 14
- 2.70 - 2.70 subtract 2.70 from both sides

pH = 11.3
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
18
 Finding the pH of a Strong Base
Trick Question

Calculate the pH of a 7.5 x 10 - 6 M Mg(OH) 2 solution.

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 7.5 x 10 - 6 M Mg(OH) 2 Find: pH

Note
We cannot just plug in the base concentration into any formula yet.
[OH - ] ≠ [Mg(OH) ] 2
This is because there's twice the amount of base concentration.
The 2 subscript on Mg(OH) 2 tells us 2 hydroxides dissociate.
2 [OH - ] = [Mg(OH) ] 2

Multiply 2 by the base concentration.

Step
2

[OH - ] = 2 (7.5 x 10 - 6 )
[OH - ] = 1.5 x 10 - 5 M

Find [H 3 O + ] using [H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14 .

Step
3

[H 3 O + ](1.5 x 10 - 5 ) = 1.0 x 10 - 14

Divide 1.5 x 10 - 5 to both sides

[H 3 O + ](1.5 x 10 - 5 ) = 1.0 x 10 - 14
1.5 x 10 - 5 1.5 x 10 - 5
[H O + ] = 6.66666667 x 10 - 10 M
3
Round to 2 sig figs

[H 3 O + ] = 6.7 x 10 - 10 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

19
 Finding the pH of a Strong Base
Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].
Step
4

pH = -log [6.7 x 10 - 10 ]

pH = 9.175874166

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

Step
5

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[Mg(OH) 2 ] = 7.5 x 10 - 6 M

2 sig figs = 2 decimal places

pH = 9.175874166
Round up to 2 decimal places

pH = 9.18

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

20
 Finding [OH - ] from pH
Formulas
pH + pOH = 14 [OH - ] = 10 - pOH
pH to [OH - ]

Find [OH - ] of a solution with a pH of 8.7.

Find the pOH by plugging in pH into the formula.

Step
1

Given: pH = 8.7
pH + pOH = 14
8.7 + pOH = 14
- 8.7 - 8.7 subtract 8.7 from both sides
pOH = 5.3
Find [OH - ] by plugging in pOH into the formula.
Step
2

[OH - ] = 10 - pOH
[OH - ] = 10 - 5.3

[OH - ] = 5.011872336 x 10 - 6 M
Step
3
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

The amount of decimal places the pH or pOH has equals theStep

3
number of
sig figs the concentration will have.

pOH = 5.3
1 decimal place = 1 sig fig
[OH - ] = 5.011872336 x 10 - 6 M
Round to 1 sig fig
[OH - ] = 5 x 10 - 6 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

21
 Finding pH & pOH
Formula
pH + pOH = 14

pOH to pH

Find the pH if the pOH is 6.5.

Find the pH by plugging in pOH into the formula.

Step
1

Given: pOH = 6.5

pH + pOH = 14
pH + 6.5 = 14
- 6.5 - 6.5 subtract 6.5 from both sides
pH = 7.5

pH to pOH

Find the pOH if the pH is 9.7.

Find the pOH by plugging in pH into the formula.

Step
1

Given: pH = 9.7
pH + pOH = 14
9.7 + pOH = 14
- 9.7 - 9.7 subtract 9.7 from both sides

pOH = 4.3

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

22
 Finding [OH - ] from [H 3 O + ]
Formula
[H 3 O + ] x [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

[H 3 O + ] to [OH - ]

Find [OH - ] of a solution with [H 3 O + ] = 2.7 x 10 - 4 M.

Find [OH - ] by plugging in [H 3 O + ] into the formula.

Step
1

Given: [H 3 O + ] = 2.7 x 10 - 4 M

[H 3 O + ] x [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

2.7 x 10 - 4 x [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

2.7 x 10 - 4 x [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

divide 2.7 x 10 - 14 from both sides
2.7 x 10 - 4 2.7 x 10 - 4
[OH - ] = 3.7037037 x 10 - 11 M
Round to 2 sig figs since the given only has 2 sig figs
[OH - ] = 3.7 x 10 - 11 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

23
 Finding [H 3 O + ] from [OH - ]
Formula
[H 3 O + ] x [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

[OH - ] to [H 3 O + ]

Find [H 3 O + ] of a solution with [OH - ] = 3.4 x 10 - 8 M.

Find [H 3 O + ] by plugging in [OH - ] into the formula.

Step
1

Given: [OH - ] = 3.4 x 10 - 8 M

[H 3 O + ] x [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

[H O + ] x 3.4 x 10 - 8 = 1.0 x 10 - 14
3

[H 3 O + ] x 3.4 x 10 - 8 = 1.0 x 10 - 14
divide 3.4 x 10 - 8 from both sides
3.4 x 10 - 8 3.4 x 10 - 8
[H 3 O + ] = 2.941176471 x 10 - 7 M
Round to 2 sig figs since the given only has 2 sig figs
[H 3 O + ] = 2.9 x 10 - 7 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

24
Summary of All Formulas
[H 3 O + ] to pH pH to [H 3 O + ]

pH = -log [H 3 O + ] [H 3 O + ] = 10 - pH

[OH - ] to pOH pOH to [OH - ]

pOH = -log [OH - ] [OH - ] = 10 - pOH

pH to pOH [H 3 O + ] to [OH - ]
or or
pOH to pH -
[OH ] to [H 3 O + ]

pH + pOH = 14 [H 3 O + ] x [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

[OH - ] to pH pH to [OH - ]

pOH = -log [OH - ] pH + pOH = 14

pH + pOH = 14 [OH - ] = 10 - pOH

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

25
 What is K a ?
K a is the acid-dissociation constant for a weak acid (HA).
HA(aq) + H O(l) H O + (aq) + A - (aq)
2 3
OR
HA(aq) H + (aq) + A - (aq)
The K a expression follows the same rules as finding the equilibrium
expression. We do not include solids or liquids in our K a expression.
[Products] coefficient
K =
[Reactants] coefficient
HA(aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + A - (aq) HA(aq) H + (aq) + A - (aq)

[H 3 O + ][A - ] [H + ][A - ]
K = or K a =
a [HA] [HA]
The value of K a tells us the strength of the acid:
K a the stronger the acid and pH.
K a the weaker the acid and pH.

Common multiple choice question

Which of the following acids is the weakest?

HA, K a = 6.8 x 10 - 8
HM , K a = 3.4 x 10 - 6
HJ , K -5
a = 2.1 x 10
HZ , K = 3.0 x 10 - 10
a

d, because K a the weaker the acid and since 10 - 10 is the lowest, it is the weakest.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

26
 What is K b ?
K b is the base-dissociation constant for a weak base (B).
B(aq) + H O(l) 2 BH + (aq) + OH - (aq)

The K b expression follows the same rules as finding the equilibrium

expression. We do not include solids or liquids in our K b expression.
[Products] coefficient
K =
[Reactants] coefficient

B(aq) + H O(l) BH + (aq) + OH - (aq)
2

[BH + ][OH - ]
K b =
[B]

The value of K b tells us the strength of the base:

K b the stronger the base and pH.
K b the weaker the base and pH.

Common multiple choice question

Which of the following bases is the weakest?

(CH 3 ) 2 NH, K b = 5.1 x 10 - 4
ClO - , K b = 2.9 x 10 - 7
SO2 - , K = 8.3 x 10 - 13
4 b

c, because K b the weaker the base and since 10 - 13 is the lowest, it is the weakest.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

27
 How to Build an ICE Table
The Basics:

An ICE Table is used to find concentrations at equilibrium and the

equilibrium constant (K).

The values used in an ICE Table must be concentrations, meaning the

units are all in molarity (M).

Here is what each letter in ICE represents:

I = Initial concentration

C = Change in concentration

E = concentration when the reaction is at Equilibrium

H 2 O is excluded in an ICE Table

Generic Template of an ICE Table

Balanced Chemical Equation:

HA + H2O H3O+ + A-

I Initial Acid Concentration 0 0

C -x +x +x

E Initial Acid Concentration - x x x

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

28
 How to Build an ICE Table
Steps for building an ICE Table

Step
1 Start with adding initial concentration values to the first line.
H 2 O is excluded in an ICE Table.

HA + H2O H3O+ + A-

I Initial Acid Concentration 0 0

Remember if we do not know the

Given in the
original question. values of the products, label
the products as zero.

Place -x for the reactants and +x for the products.

Step
2

HA + H2O H3O+ + A-
I Initial Acid Concentration 0 0
C -x +x +x

Note: x depends on the coefficients in the balanced chemical equation, if there

was a 2 coefficient in front of HA, for example, 2 HA then the change would be -2x.

Add rows I and C together to get row E.

Step
3

HA + H2O H3O+ + A-

I Initial Acid Concentration 0 0

C -x +x +x

E Initial Acid Concentration - x x x

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

29
 How to Build an ICE Table Example
Calculate the pH at different volumes of KOH in a titration of 40.0 mL
of 0.100 M HCOOH (K a = 1.80 x 10 -4 ) with 0.100 M KOH.

Steps for building an ICE Table

Start with adding initial concentration values to the first line.

Step
1
H 2 O is excluded in an ICE Table.

HCOOH + H 2 O H 3 O + + COOH -

I 0.100 0 0

Given in the Remember if we do not know the

original question. values of the products, label
the products as zero.

Place -x for the reactants and +x for the products.

Step
2

HCOOH + H 2 O H 3 O + + COOH -
I 0.100 0 0
C -x +x +x

Add rows I and C together to get row E.

Step
3

HCOOH + H 2 O H 3 O + + COOH -

I 0.100 0 0

C -x +x +x

E 0.100 - x x x

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

30
 How to Use the 5% Rule
(x is small assumption)
The x is small assumption or the 5% rule helps us quickly solve for x,
which then allows us to solve for the pH.

This rule states that if x is small then it will not drastically change the
initial concentration of the acid or base, the change is negligible.

The 5% rule is valid and x is small.

Clue
When K a ≤ 10 -4 or K b ≤ 10 -4

Build an ICE Table and set Assume x is small.

Step Step
1 2
up the K a expression.
Apply the “x is small assumption” by
HCOOH + H 2 O H 3 O + + COOH - removing the x that is being subtracted.
1.80 x 10 -4 = x2
I 0.100 0 0
0.100 - x
C -x +x +x 1.80 x 10 -4 = x2
0.100
E 0.100 - x x x Multiply both sides by 0.100.
x2
Write the K a expression for the 0.100 x 1.80 x 10 -4 = x 0.100
0.100
above chemical equation. 1.80 x 10 -5 = x 2
[Products] coefficient Take the square root of both sides.
Ka =
[Reactants] coefficient
1.80 x 10 -5 = x2
[H O + ][COOH - ]
3
Ka = x = 0.00424
[HCOOH]
x2
Step
3 Check if the 5% rule is valid.
Ka =
0.100 - x x
5% Rule = x 100
Plug in the given K a value into the [initial acid]
K a expression. 0.00424
5% Rule = x 100 = 4.24%
Given: K a = 1.80 x 10 -4 0.100
-4 x2 4.24% is less than 5%, so the rule is valid.
1.80 x 10 =
0.100 - x Clue
Since K a ≤ 10 -4 the 5% rule is valid.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

31
When to Use the Quadratic Formula
The 5% rule is invalid and x is not small.
Clue
When K a > 10 -4 or K b > 10 -4
Do not cancel out x, instead use the quadratic formula.

Build an ICE Table and set Assume x is small for now, only to
Step Step
1 2
up the K a expression. check if the 5% rule is valid or not.

H 2 X + H 2 O H 3 O + + HX -
Apply the “x is small assumption” by
I 0.10 0 0 removing the x that is being subtracted.
1.20 x 10 -3 = x2
C -x +x +x 0.10 - x
1.20 x 10 -3 = x2
E 0.10 - x x x
0.10
Multiply both sides by 0.10.
Write the K a expression for the
above chemical equation. x2
0.10 x 1.20 x 10 -3 = x 0.10
0.10
[Products] coefficient 1.20 x 10 -4 = x 2
Ka =
[Reactants] coefficient Take the square root of both sides.
[H 3 O + ][HX - ]
Ka = 1.20 x 10 -4 = x2
[H 2 X]
x = 0.011
x2
Ka =
0.10 - x Step
Check if the 5% rule is valid.
3
Plug in the given K a value into the x
K a expression. 5% Rule = x 100
[initial acid]
Given: K a = 1.20 x 10 -3 0.011
5% Rule = x 100 = 11%
x2 0.10
1.20 x 10 -3 =
0.10 - x Since 11% is greater than 5%, the rule is
invalid, we cannot cancel out x and we must
use the quadratic formula.
Clue Since our K a > 10 -4 the 5% rule
will be invalid.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

32
 When to Use the Quadratic Formula
Step
4 Use the quadratic formula to Plug in values into the quadratic formula.
solve for x.
0 = 1 x 2 + 1.20 x 10 -3 x - 1.20 x 10 -4
Multiply both sides by 0.10 - x.
a = 1 b = 1.20 x 10 -3 c = -1.20 x 10 -4
(0.10 - x) 1.20 x 10 -3 = x2 (0.10 - x)
0.10 - x -b ± b 2 - 4ac
Quadratic formula: x =
Distribute 2a
(0.10 - x) 1.20 x 10 -3 = x 2 Square Multiply
-1.20 x 10 - 3 ± (1.20 x 10 - 3 ) 2 -4(1)(-1.20 x 10 - 4 )
1.20 x 10 -4 - 1.20 x 10 -3 x = x 2 x=
2(1)
Multiply

Add values
Move all values on the left side to -1.20 x 10 - 3 ± 1.44 x 10 - 6 + 4.8 x 10 - 4
the right side so that the left side x=
equals zero. 2
Take the square root
Add 1.20 x 10 -3 x to both sides
-1.20 x 10 - 3 ± 4.8144 x 10 - 4
1.20 x 10 -4 - 1.20 x 10 -3 x = x 2 x=
2
+ 1.20 x 10 -3 x + 1.20 x 10 -3 x
-1.20 x 10 - 3 ± 0.021941741
1.20 x 10 -4 = x 2 + 1.20 x 10 -3 x x=
2
Separate into two fractions
-1.20 x 10-3 + 0.021941741 -1.20 x 10-3 - 0.021941741
Subtract 1.20 x 10 -4 to both sides. 2 2

1.20 x 10 -4 = x 2 + 1.20 x 10 -3 x Combine first then divide

- 1.20 x 10 -4 - 1.20 x 10 -4 x = 0.010 x = -0.012

x cannot be negative, our only x
0 = x 2 + 1.20 x 10 -3 x - 1.20 x 10 -4 value is the positive value.
x = 0.010

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

33
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid Concept
To find the pH of any substance we first need to find the [H 3 O + ].

Since a weak acid does not completely dissociate, the H 3 O + concentration

does not equal the concentration of the weak acid.

[H 3 O + ] ≠ [weak acid]

This is why we must use an ICE table and the K a to find the acid
concentration, [H 3 O + ], at equilibrium.

Here’s a generic example where HA refers to a weak acid:

Calculate the pH of 0.20 M HA, K a = 1.5 x 10 - 8 .

Identify the given and what you’re finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.20 M HA Find: pH of HA

K a = 1.5 x 10 - 8
Step
2 Write the Dissociation Equation.
HA(aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + A - (aq)
OR
HA(aq) H + (aq) + A - (aq)

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

34
Finding the pH of a Weak Acid Concept
Step
3 Build an ICE Table.
HA(aq) H + (aq) + A - (aq)
I 0.20 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.20 - x x x

Write the K a expression.

Step
4
equilibruium expression
[H + ][A - ]
K a =
[HA]
Step
5 Solve for x.
To solve for x you will use:
Row E of ICE Table K a expression Given K a value
HA(aq) H + (aq) + A - (aq) [H + ][A - ]
Ka = K a = 1.5 x 10 - 8
I 0.20 0 0 [HA]

C -x +x +x
E 0.20 - x x x

Plug in row E and given K a value into K a expression.

HA(aq) H + (aq) + A - (aq)

I 0.20 0 0 [H + ][A - ]
C -x +x +x
Ka =

[HA] K a = 1.5 x 10 -8
E 0.20 - x x x

x•x
x 10 - 8 =
1.5
0.20 - x

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

35
Finding the pH of a Weak Acid Concept
Multiply the numerator.

x•x
x 10 - 8 =
1.5
0.20 - x

- 8 x2
1.5 x 10 =
0.20 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid or invalid.

There are two main types of questions:

1) Where the x is small assumption (5% rule) is valid.
Clue
When K a ≤ 10 - 4
2) Where the x is small assumption is invalid.
When K a > 10 - 4
Clue

This step determines which type of question you have.

In our case, K a = 1.5 x 10 - 8 , this is less than 10 - 4 so the x is small

assumption is valid. We can cancel out the x that is being subtracted
and continue solving for x.

x2
1.5 x 10 - 8 =
0.20 - x

x2
1.5 x 10 - 8 =
0.20

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

36
Finding the pH of a Weak Acid Concept

Multiply the
denominator to both sides.

-8 x2
(0.20) x 1.5 x 10 = x (0.20)
0.20
3.0 x 10 - 9 = x 2

Take the square root of both sides.

3.0 x 10 - 9 = x2
5.477225575 x 10 - 5 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

5.477225575 x 10 - 5 = x Correct amount of sig figs is

found looking at the given values
Round up to 2 sig figs
Given: 0.20 M HA
x = 5.5 x 10 - 5
K a = 1.5 x 10 - 8
Recall x refers to the [H + ] or [H 3 O + ].

HA(aq) H + (aq) + A - (aq)

I 0.20 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.20 - x x x

So x = 5.5 x 10 - 5 refers to [H 3 O + ] = 5.5 x 10 - 5 M.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

37
Finding the pH of a Weak Acid Concept
Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].
Step
6

[H 3 O + ] = 5.5 x 10 - 5 M pH = -log [H 3 O + ]

pH = -log [5.5 x 10 - 5 ]

pH = 4.259637311

Step
7
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 5.5 x 10 - 5 M
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pH = 4.259637311
Round up to 2 decimal places


pH = 4.26

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

38
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
x is small

Find the pH of a 0.52 M HC 2 H 3 O 2 solution.

K a for HC 2 H 3 O 2 is 1.8 x 10 - 5 .

Identify the given and what you’re finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.52M HC 2 H 3 O 2 Find: pH of HC 2 H 3 O 2

K a = 1.8 x 10 - 5
Write the Dissociation Equation.
Step
2

HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) H + (aq) + C 2 H 3 O 2- (aq)

Build an ICE Table.

Step
3

HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) H + (aq) + C 2 H 3 O 2- (aq)

I 0.52 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.52 - x x x

Write the K a expression.

Step
4 equilibruium expression

[H + ][C 2 H 3 O 2- ]
K =
a [HC 2 H 3 O 2 ]

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

39
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
Solve for x.
Step
5

Plug in row E and K a value into K a expression.

H + (aq) + C 2 H 3 O 2- (aq)
HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) [H + ][C 2 H 3 O 2- ]
K a =
I 0.52 0 0 [HC 2 H 3 O 2 ]

C -x
+x +x
K a = 1.8 x 10 - 5
E 0.52 - x x x

x •x
1.8 x 10 - 5 =
0.52 - x
Multiply the numerator.

x •x
1.8 x 10 - 5 =
0.52 - x

x 2
1.8 x 10 - 5 =
0.52 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid. If valid, apply the “x is small

assumption” by removing the x that is being subtracted.

x 2 The 5% rule is valid and x is small

1.8 x 10 - 5 = Clue When K ≤ 10
-4
0.52 - x a

- 5 x2
1.8 x 10 =
0.52

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

40
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid

Multiply the denominator to both sides.

- 5 x2
(0.52) x 1.8 x 10 = x (0.52)
0.52
- 6
9.36 x 10 = x 2

Take the square root of both sides.

-6 = x2
9.36 x 10
0.0030594117 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

0.0030594117 = x Correct amount of sig figs is

Round up to 2 sig figs found looking at the given values

Given: 0.52M HC 2 H 3 O 2
x = 0.0031
K a = 1.8 x 10 - 5

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

41
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
Recall x refers to the [H + ] or [H 3 O + ].
HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) H + (aq) + C 2 H 3 O 2- (aq)
I 0.52 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.52 - x x x

So x = 0.0031 refers to [H 3 O + ] = 0.0031 M

Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].

Step
6

[H 3 O + ] = 0.0031 M pH = -log [H 3 O + ]

pH = -log [0.0031]

pH = 2.508638306
Step
7 Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 0.0031 M
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pH = 2.508638306
Round up to 2 decimal places


pH = 2.51

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

42
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
The quadratic formula

Calculate the pH of a 0.020 M HClO 2 solution,
-2
K a for HClO 2 is 1.0 x 10 .

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.020 M HClO 2 Find: pH of HClO 2

K a = 1.0 x 10 -2

Step
2
Write the Dissociation Equation.
HClO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + ClO 2- (aq)

Build an ICE Table.

Step
3

HClO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + ClO 2- (aq)

I 0.020 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.020 - x x x

Step
4 Write the K a expression.
equilibruium expression

[H + ][ClO 2- ]
Ka =
[HClO 2 ]

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

43
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
Solve for x.
Step
5

Plug in row E and K a value into K a expression.

HClO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + ClO 2- (aq) [H + ][ClO 2- ]

K a =
I 0.020 0 0 [HClO 2 ]

C -x +x +x
K a = 1.0 x 10 - 2
E 0.020 - x x x
- x•x
1.0 x 10 2 =
0.020 - x

Multiply the numerator.

- x•x
1.0 x 10 2 =
0.020 - x

2 x2
-
1.0 x 10 =
0.020 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid.

x2 The 5% rule is invalid and x is not small

-
1.0 x 10 =2 Clue When K > 10 - 4

0.020 - x
a
Do not cancel out x, instead use the quadratic formula

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

44
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
Multiply the denominator to both sides.

- 2 x2
(0.020 - x) x 1.0 x 10 = x (0.020 - x)
0.020 - x
Distribute
(0.020 - x) 1.0 x 10 - 2 = x 2

2.0 x 10 - 4 - 1.0 x 10 - 2 x = x 2

Rewrite into proper descending order form.

descending order: ax 2 + bx - c

Add over middle term to both sides

2.0 x 10 - 4 - 1.0 x 10 - 2 x = x 2
+ 1.0 x 10 - 2 x + 1.0 x 10 - 2 x
2.0 x 10 - 4 = x 2 + 1.0 x 10 - 2 x

Subtract over and set equal to zero

2.0 x 10 - 4 = x 2 + 1.0 x 10 - 2 x
-2.0 x 10 - 4 -2.0 x 10 - 4
0 = x 2 + 1.0 x 10 - 2 x - 2.0 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

45
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
Identify a, b and c.

0 = 1 x 2 + 1.0 x 10 - 2 x -2.0 x 10 - 4
If no coefficient is
shown, assume it is 1
a = 1 b = 1.0 x 10 - 2 c = -2.0 x 10 - 4

Plug into quadratic formula.

-b ± b 2 - 4ac
Quadratic formula: x =
2a
x = -1.0 x 10 - 2 ± (1.0 x 10 - 2 ) 2 -4(1)(-2.0 x 10 - 4 )
2(1)
Square
x = -1.0 x 10 - 2 ± (1.0 x 10 - 2 ) 2 -4(1)(-2.0 x 10 - 4 )
2(1)
Multiply
x = -1.0 x 10 - 2 ± 1.0 x 10 - 4 -4(1)(-2.0 x 10 - 4 )
2(1)
Multiply
Add values
x = -1.0 x 10 - 2 ± 1.0 x 10 - 4 + 8.0 x 10 - 4
2
Take the square root
x = -1.0 x 10 - 2 ± 9.0 x 10 - 4
2
x = -1.0 x 10 - 2 ± 0.03
2
Separate into two fractions

-1.0 x 10 - 2 + 0.03 -1.0 x 10 - 2 - 0.03

2 2
Combine first then divide
x = 0.010 x = -0.020
x cannot be negative, our only x value is the positive value.
x = 0.010
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
46
 Finding the pH of a Weak Acid
Recall x refers to the [H + ] or [H 3 O + ].
HClO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + ClO 2- (aq)
I 0.020 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.020 - x x x

So x = 0.010 refers to [H 3 O + ] = 0.010 M

Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].

Step
6

[H 3 O + ] = 0.010 M pH = -log [H 3 O + ]

pH = -log [0.010]
pH = 2
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
7

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 0.010 M
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pH = 2
Add 2 decimal places


pH = 2.00

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

47
Finding the pH of a Weak Base Concept
To find the pH of any substance we first need to find the [H 3 0 + ].
Finding the pH of a weak base has some of the same steps as finding the
pH of a weak acid. The differences are that you are using K b instead of K a
and x refers to [OH - ] not [H 3 0 + ].

Due to these differences you will need to add a step and find the [H 3 0 + ]
using [OH - ].

Here's a generic example where B refers to a weak base.

Calculate the pH of a 0.100 M B solution, K b = 1.76 x 10 - 5 .

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.100 M B Find: pH of B

K b = 1.76 x 10 - 5

Write the Dissociation Equation.

Step
2

B(aq) + H 2 O(l) BH + (aq) + OH - (aq)

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

48
Finding the pH of a Weak Base Concept
Build an ICE Table.
Step
3

H 2 O is excluded in an ICE Table.

B(aq) + H 2 O(l) BH + (aq) + OH - (aq)

I 0.100 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.100 - x x x

Write the K b expression.

Step
4
equilibruium expression
K [BH + ][OH - ]
b =
[B]
Solve for x.
Step
5

To solve for x you will use:

Row E of ICE Table K b expression Given K b value
B(aq) + H O(l) BH + (aq) + OH - (aq) [BH + ][OH - ]
2 Kb = K b = 1.76 x 10 - 5
I 0.100 0 0 [B]

C -x +x +x
E 0.100 - x x x

Plug in row E and given K b value into K b expression.

B(aq) + H 2 O(l) BH + (aq) + OH - (aq)

I 0.100 0 0 [BH + ][OH - ]
Kb = K b = 1.76 x 10 - 5
[B]
C -x +x +x
E 0.100 - x x x

x•x
1.76 x 10 - 5 =
0.100 - x
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
49
Finding the pH of a Weak Base Concept
Multiply the numerator.

x•x
1.76 x 10 - 5 =
0.100 - x

- 5 x2
1.76 x 10 =
0.100 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid or invalid.

There are two main types of questions:

1) Where the x is small assumption (5% rule) is valid.
Clue
When K b ≤ 10 - 4
2) Where the x is small assumption is invalid.
Clue
When K b > 10 - 4
This step determines which type of question you have.

In our case, K b = 1.76 x 10 - 5 , this is less than 10 - 4 so the x is small

assumption is valid. We can cancel out the x that is being subtracted
and continue solving for x.

x2
1.76 x 10 - 5 =
0.100 - x

x2
1.76 x 10 - 5 =
0.100

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

50
Finding the pH of a Weak Base Concept

Multiply the
denominator to both sides.

- 5 x2
(0.100) x 1.76 x 10 = x (0.100)
0.100
1.76 x 10 - 6 = x 2

Take the square root of both sides.

1.76 x 10 - 6 = x2
0.0013266499 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

0.0013266499 = x Correct amount of sig figs is

Round up to 3 sig figs
found looking at the given values
Given: 0.100 M B
x = 0.00133
K b = 1.76 x 10 - 5
Recall x refers to the [OH - ].
B(aq) + H 2 O(l) BH + (aq) + OH - (aq)
I 0.100 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.100 - x x x

So x = 0.00133 refers to [OH - ] = 0.00133 M.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

51
Finding the pH of a Weak Base Concept
Find [H 3 O + ] using [H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14 .
Step
6

Plug in [OH - ] = 0.00133.

[H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14
[H 3 O + ](0.00133) = 1.0 x 10 - 14

Divide 0.00133 to both sides.

[H 3 O + ](0.00133) = 1.0 x 10 - 14
0.00133 0.00133
[H O + ] = 7.51879699 x 10 - 12 M
3
Round to correct amount of sig figs. Correct amount of sig figs is

[H 3 O + ] = 7.51879699 x 10 - 12 M
found looking at the given values

Given: 0.100 M B
Round up to 3 sig figs K b = 1.76 x 10 - 5
[H 3 O + ] = 7.52 x 10 - 12 M
Find pH by using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].
Step
7

pH = -log [7.52 x 10 - 12 ]
pH = 11.12378216
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
8

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places

the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 7.52 x 10 - 12 M

3 sig figs = 3 decimal places
pH = 11.12378216
Round up to 3 decimal places
pH = 11.124
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
52
 Finding the pH of a Weak Base

Determine the pH of a 0.0043 M CH 3 NH 2 solution with
-4
a K b of 4.4 x 10 .

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.0043 M CH 3 NH 2 Find: pH of CH 3 NH 2

K b = 4.4 x 10 -4

Write the Dissociation Equation.

Step
2

CH 3 NH 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) CH 3 NH 3+ (aq) + OH - (aq)

Build an ICE Table.

Step
3
H 2 O is excluded in an ICE Table

CH 3 NH 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) CH 3 NH+3 (aq) + OH - (aq)

I 0.0043 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.0043 - x x x

Step
4 Write the K b expression.
equilibruium expression

[CH 3 NH+3 ][OH - ]

Kb =
[CH 3 NH 2 ]

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

53
 Finding the pH of a Weak Base
Solve for x.
Step
5

Plug in row E and K b value into K b expression.

CH 3 NH 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) CH 3 NH 3+ (aq) + OH - (aq) [ CH 3 NH 3+ ][OH - ]

Kb =
I 0.0043 0 0 [CH 3 NH 2 ]

C -x +x +x
K b = 4.4 x 10 - 4
E 0.0043 - x x x
- x•x
4.4 x 10 4 =
0.0043 - x

Multiply the numerator.

- x•x
4.4 x 10 4 =
0.0043 - x

4 x2
-
4.4 x 10 =
0.0043 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid. If valid, apply the “x is small

assumption” by removing the x that is being subtracted.

x2 The 5% rule is valid and x is small

-
4.4 x 10 =4 -4
Clue When K ≤ 10
0.0043 - x b

x2
4.4 x 10 - 4 =
0.0043

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

54
 Finding the pH of a Weak Base
Multiply the denominator to both sides.

4 x2
-
(0.0043) x 4.4 x 10 = x (0.0043)
0.0043

1.892 x 10 - 6 = x 2

Take the square root of both sides.

1.892 x 10 - 6 = x2

0.0013754999 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

0.0013754999 = x

Round up to 2 sig figs

Correct amount of sig figs is
x = 0.0014 found looking at the given values
Given: 0.0043 M CH 3 NH 2
K b = 4.4 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

55
 Finding the pH of a Weak Base
Recall x refers to the [OH - ].
CH 3 NH 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) CH 3 NH 3+ (aq) + OH - (aq)
I 0.0043 0 0

C -x +x +x
E 0.0043 - x x x

So x = 0.0014 refers to [OH - ] = 0.0014 M.

Find [H 3 O + ] using [H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14 .
Step
6

Plug in [OH - ] = 0.0014.

[H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14
[H 3 O + ][0.0014] = 1.0 x 10 - 14

Divide 0.0014 to both sides.

[H 3 O + ](0.0014) = 1.0 x 10 - 14
0.0014 0.0014
[H O + ] = 7.14285714 x 10 - 12 M
3

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

[H 3 O + ] = 7.14285714 x 10 - 12 M
Round to 2 sig figs Correct amount of sig figs is

found looking at the given values
[H 3 O + ] = 7.1 x 10 - 12 M
Given: 0.0043 M CH 3 NH 2
K b = 4.4 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

56
 Finding the pH of a Weak Base
Find pH by using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].
Step
7

pH = -log [7.1 x 10 - 12 ]
pH = 11.14874165

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

Step
8

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 7.1 x 10 - 12 M

2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pH = 11.14874165
Round up to 2 decimal places

pH = 11.15

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

57
Main Steps for Finding pH of Acids and Bases
Strong Acid Strong Base

Finding pH of a strong base

Finding pH of a strong acid
Find [H 3 O + ] by using
Find pH by using [H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14
pH = -log [H 3 O + ]
Find pH by using

pH = -log [H 3 O + ]

Weak Acid Weak Base

Finding pH of a weak acid Finding pH of a weak base

Build ICE Table. Build ICE Table.
Write K b expression.
Write K a expression.
Solve for x by plugging in
row E from ICE Table and
Solve for x by plugging in
K b value into K b expression.
row E from ICE Table and
Depending on K b value use
K a value into K a expression.
either x is small or quadratic
Depending on K a value use
formula. This gives you [OH-].
either x is small or quadratic
formula. This gives you [H3O+]. Find [H 3 O + ] by using
[H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14
Find pH by using.
Find pH by using
pH = -log [H 3 O + ].
pH = -log [H 3 O + ].

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

58
 Finding K a and K b
There is a specific way to write the dissociation reaction and dissociation
constant for a weak acid (HA) and a conjugate base (A - ).

Weak Acid: HA(aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + A - (aq)

[H 3 O + ][A - ]
K a =
[HA]
Conjugate base: A - (aq) + H 2 O(l) OH - (aq) + HA(aq)
[OH - ][HA]
K b =
[A - ] Note
Multiplying K a x K b would give us [H 3 O + ][OH - ], This formula
- 14
which is K w or 1.0 x 10 . So K a x K b = K w we can only be used
now have a new formula we can use to find the on a conjugate
acid-base pair
K a from the K b and vice versa.
K a x K b = 1.0 x 10 - 14


Finding K a from K b Finding K b from K a
If the K b for F - is 1.5 x 10 - 11 , what is the K a of HF? What is the Kb of CN - if the Ka of HCN is 5.0 x 10- 10 ?
Step Step
1 Identify the given and what you're finding. 1 Identify the given and what you're finding.
Given: K b = 1.5 x 10 - 11 Find: K a
Given: K a = 5.0 x 10 - 10 Find: K b
Step
2 Plug in K b into formula.
Step
2
Plug in K a into formula.

K a x K b = 1.0 x 10 - 14 K a x K b = 1.0 x 10 - 14

K a x (1.5 x 10 - 11 ) = 1.0 x 10 - 14 (5.0 x 10 - 10 ) x K b = 1.0 x 10 - 14

Divide 1.5 x 10 - 11 to both sides
Divide 5.0 x 10 - 10 to both sides
K a x (1.5 x 10 - 11 ) = 1.0 x 10 - 14
(5.0 x 10 - 10 ) x K b = 1.0 x 10 - 14
1.5 x 10 - 11 1.5 x 10 - 11
5.0 x 10 - 10 5.0 x 10 - 10
K a = 6.6666666667 x 10 - 4

Round up to 2 sig figs

K a = 6.7 x 10 - 4 K b = 2.0 x 10 - 5

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

59
 Finding K a from pH and Concentration

A 0.10 M solution of HC 3 H 5 O 3 has a pH of 2.44. Find the K a .

Step
1 Identify the given and what you're finding.
Given: 0.10 M HC 3 H 5 O 3 Find: K a
pH = 2.44

Find [H O + ] using [H O + ] = 10 - pH .
Step
2
3 3
[H 3 O + ] = 10 - 2.44 Correct amount of sig figs is

[H O + ] = 0.0036307805 M found looking at the given values

3
Given: 0.10 M HC 3 H 5 O 3
Round to 2 sig figs

[H 3 O + ] = 0.0036 M

Write the Dissociation Equation.

Step
3

HC 3 H 5 O 3 + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + C 3 H 5 O 3- (aq)

Build an ICE Table.

Step
4

HC 3 H 5 O 3 + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + C 3 H 5 O 3- (aq)

I 0.10 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.10 - x x x

We already found the value of x, it's the same as [H 3 O + ] found in step 2.

x = 0.0036

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

60
 Finding K a from pH and Concentration
Find the equilibrium concentrations by plugging in the value of x.
Step
5

HC 3 H 5 O 3 + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + C 3 H 5 O 3- (aq)
I 0.10 0 0
C -0.0036 +0.0036 +0.0036
E 0.10 - 0.0036 0.0036 0.0036

[HC 3 H 5 O 3 ] = 0.0964 = 0.10 M

Round up to 2 sig figs
[H 3 O + ] = 0.0036 M
[C 3 H 5 O 3- ] = 0.0036 M

Write K a the expression.

Step equilibruium expression
6

[H 3 O + ][C 3 H 5 O 3- ]
K =
a [HC 3 H 5 O 3 ]

Step
Solve for the K a value by plugging in the equilibrium concentrations into
7
the K a expression.
(0.0036)(0.0036)
K a =
0.10
1.296 x 10 - 5
K a =
0.10
K a = 1.296 x 10 - 4

Round up to 2 sig figs

K a = 1.3 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

61
 Finding K b from pH and Concentration

Sodium benzoate, C 6 H 5 CO 2 Na, is the salt of the weak acid benzoic acid
(C 6 H 5 CO 2 H). A 0.10 M solution of sodium benzoate has a pH of 8.60.
Calculate the K b value for the benzoate ion (C 6 H 5 CO -2).

Step
1 Identify the given and what you're finding.
Given: 0.10 M C 6 H 5 CO 2 Na Find: K b
pH = 8.60

Find pOH using pH + pOH = 14.
Step
2

given pH value
8.60 + pOH = 14
Subtract 8.60 to both sides
8.60 + pOH = 14
-8.60 -8.60
pOH = 5.40

Find [OH - ] using [OH - ] = 10 - pOH .

Step
3

[OH - ] = 10 - 5.40
[OH - ] = 3.981071706 x 10 - 6 M Correct amount of sig figs is
found looking at the given values
Round up to 2 sig figs
Given: 0.10 M C 6 H 5 CO 2 Na

[OH - ] = 4.0 x 10 - 6 M
Write Dissociation equation.
Step
4

We are given 3 different substances, the salt (C 6 H 5 CO 2 Na), the weak

acid (C 6 H 5 CO 2 H) and the basic anion (C 6 H 5 CO -2). Since we are solving
for K b , our reactant would be the basic anion reacting with water. Also the
Na in the salt would dissociate and since it does not add to acidity or
basicity we can ignore it.
- C 6 H 5 CO 2 H(aq) + OH - (aq)
C 6 H 5 CO 2(aq) + H 2 O(l)

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

62
 Finding K b from pH and Concentration
Build an ICE Table.
Step
5

C 6 H 5 CO -2(aq) + H 2 O(l) C 6 H 5 CO 2 H(aq) + OH - (aq)
I 0.10 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.10 - x x x

We already found the value of x, it is the same as [OH - ]
found in step 3. x = 4.0 x 10 - 6
Find the equilibrium concentrations by plugging in the value of x.
Step
6

C H CO - (aq) + H O(l)
6 5 2 2 C H CO H(aq) + OH - (aq)
6 5 2
I 0.10 0 0
C - 4.0 x 10 - 6 + 4.0 x 10 - 6 + 4.0 x 10 - 6
E 0.10 - 4.0 x 10 - 6 4.0 x 10 - 6 4.0 x 10 - 6
[C H CO - ] = 0.099996 ≈ 0.10 M
6 5 2
[C 6 H 5 CO 2 H] = 4.0 x 10 - 6 M
[OH - ] = 4.0 x 10 - 6 M
equilibruium expression
Step
7 Write K b the expression.
[C 6 H 5 CO 2 H][OH - ]
K b =
[C 6 H 5 CO -2]

Solve for K b value by plugging in the equilibrium concentrations into

Step
8
K b expression.
(4.0 x 10 - 6 )(4.0 x 10 - 6 )
K b =
0.10
1.6 x 10 - 11
K b =
0.10

K = 1.6 x 10 - 10
b
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
63
 Percent Ionization
Percent ionization is another way to measure the strength of
a weak acid (HA).
Percent ionization refers to the percentage of acid molecules that
actually ionize (dissolve).

The higher the percent ionization the stronger the acid.

% ionization pH
[HA] initial % ionization Other ways to say percent ionization

[HA] initial [H 3 O + ] equilibrium percent ionized

percent dissociation

The formula for percent ionization is:

concentration of ionized acid
Percent ionization = x 100
initial acid concentration
You may also see this formula written like this:
[H 3 O + ] equilibrium
% ionization = x 100
[HA] initial

Common multiple choice question

Which weak acid solution has the greatest percent ionization?
1.00 x 10 - 2 M HC 2 H 3 O 2
0.100 M HC 2 H 3 O 2
0.500 M HC 2 H 3 O 2
a, because [HA] initial % ionization therefore the lowest [HA] has the greatest % ionization

There are two main types of questions you'll see when asked to find the
percent ionization:
Type 1: No ICE Table
Type 2: Requires an ICE Table
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
64
 Finding Percent Ionization Type 1

A 0.077 M solution of a weak acid, HA, has a pH of 2.16.

Find the percentage of acid that is ionized.

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1
Given: 0.077 M HA Find: % ionization
pH = 2.16

Find [H 3 O + ] using [H 3 O + ] = 10 - pH .
Step
2

pH = 2.16 [H 3 O + ] = 10 - pH
[H O + ] = 10 - 2.16
3
Correct amount of sig figs is
[H O + ] = 0.0069183097 M
3
found looking at the given values
Round up to 2 sig figs
Given: 0.077 M HA
[H 3 O + ] = 0.0069 M

Plug into % ionization formula.

Step

found in previous step

3

[H 3 O + ] equilibrium
% ionization = x 100
[HA] initial Given in question

0.0069
% ionization = x 100
0.077

% ionization = 0.0896103896 x 100

% ionization = 8.96103896%

Round up to 2 sig figs

9.0%

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

65
 Finding Percent Ionization Type 2

What is the % ionization of a 2.4 M HNO 2 solution?

K a for HNO 2 is 4.6 x 10 - 4 .

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 2.4 M HNO 2 Find: % ionization

K = 4.6 x 10 - 4
a

Write the Dissociation Equation.

Step
2

HNO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + NO -2(aq)

Build an ICE Table.

Step
3

HNO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + NO -2(aq)

I 2.4 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 2.4 - x x x

Write the K a expression.

Step equilibruium expression

4

[H + ][NO -2]
K a =
[HNO ] 2

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

66
 Finding Percent Ionization Type 2
Solve for x.
Step
5

Plug in row E and K a value into K a expression.

HNO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + NO -2(aq) [H + ][NO -2]

K a =
I 2.4 0 0 [HNO 2 ]

C -x +x +x
K a = 4.6 x 10 - 4
E 2.4 - x x x
x•x
4.6 x 10 - 4 =
2.4 - x

Multiply the numerator.

x•x
4.6 x 10 - 4 =
2.4 - x

x2
-
4.6 x 10 =4
2.4 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid. If valid, apply the “x is small

assumption” by removing the x that is being subtracted.
The 5% rule is valid and x is small
x 2 Clue When K a ≤ 10
-4
4.6 x 10 - 4 =
2.4 - x

x 2
4.6 x 10 - 4 =
2.4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

67
 Finding Percent Ionization Type 2
Multiply the denominator to both sides.

x2
- 4
(2.4) x 4.6 x 10 = x (2.4)
2.4

0.001104 = x 2

Take the square root of both sides.

0.001104 = x2

0.0332264955 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

0.0332264955 = x

Round to 2 sig figs

Correct amount of sig figs is
x = 0.033 found looking at the given values
Given: 2.4 M HNO 2
K a = 4.6 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

68
 Finding Percent Ionization Type 2
Recall x refers to the [H + ] or [H 3 O + ].
HNO 2 (aq) H + (aq) + NO -2(aq)

I 2.4 0 0

C -x +x +x
E 2.4 - x x x

So x = 0.033 refers to [H 3 O + ] = 0.033 M.

[H 3 O + ] equilibrium
Use formula: % ionization = x 100.
Step

[HA] initial
6

Found in previous step

0.033
% ionization = x 100
2.4
Given in the question
% ionization = 0.01375 x 100

% ionization = 1.375%
Round up to 2 sig figs
Correct amount of sig figs is
found looking at the given values
% ionization = 1.4%
Given: 2.4 M HNO 2

K a = 4.6 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

69
 Using % Ionization to Find K a and pH

A 0.200 M solution of a weak acid, HA, is 9.4% ionized.

Calculate the pH and K a .

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1
Given: 0.200 M HA Find: pH and K a
% ionization = 9.4%
Convert % ionization into a decimal by dividing by 100.
Step
2

9.4%
= 0.094
100
Find [H 3 O + ] by multiplying the decimal to given [HA].
Step
3

[H 3 O + ] = 0.200 x 0.094
[H O + ] = 0.0188 M
3
Round up to 2 sig figs
Correct amount of sig figs is
[H 3 O + ] = 0.019 M found looking at the given values
Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ]. Given: 9.4 %
Step

pH = -log (0.019)
pH = 1.721246399

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
5

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have

[H 3 O + ] = 0.019 M

2 sig figs = 2 decimal places

pH = 1.721246399

Round to 2 decimal places
pH = 1.72
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
70
 Using % Ionization to Find K a and pH
Build an ICE Table.
Step

HA(aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + A - (aq)

I 0.200 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.200 - x x x

We already found the value of x, it is the same as
[H 3 O + ] = 0.019 M. x = 0.019
Find the equilibrium concentrations by plugging in the value of x.
Step
7

HA(aq) + H O(l) 2 H O + (aq) + A - (aq)

3
I 0.200 0 0
C -0.019 +0.019 +0.019
E 0.200 - 0.019 0.019 0.019
[HA] = 0.181 M
[H 3 O + ] = 0.019 M equilibruium expression
[A - ] = 0.019 M
Write K a the expression.
Step
8

[H 3 O + ][A - ]
K a =
[HA]
Solve for K a value by plugging in the equilibrium concentrations
Step
9
into K a expression.
(0.019)(0.019)
K a =
0.181
3.61 x 10 - 4
K a =
0.181
K a = 0.0019944751
Round up to 2 sig figs
K a = 0.0020
pH = 1.72
K a = 0.0020

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
71
Using % Ionization to Find Concentration

A 0.100 M solution of BrCH 2 COOH is 13.2% ionized.

Find [H 3 O + ], [BrCH 2 COO - ], [BrCH 2 COOH].

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.100 M HA Find: [H 3 O + ], [BrCH 2 COO - ], [BrCH 2 COOH]

% ionization = 4.6 x 10 - 4

Find [H 3 O + ] equilibrium by plugging in [HA] and % ionization into formula.
Step
2

given
[H +
3 O ] equilibrium
% ionization = x 100
[HA] initial given
[H 3 O + ] equilibrium
13.2% = x 100
0.100
Divide by 100 to both sides.

13.2% = [H O +]
3 equilibrium x 100
100 0.100 100

Multiply by denominator to both sides.

[H 3 O + ] equilibrium
(0.100) x 0.132 = x (0.100)
0.100
0.0132 = [H 3 O + ] equilibrium

Build an ICE Table.

Step
3

BrCH 2 COOH(aq) + H 2 O(l) BrCH 2 COO - (aq) + H 3 O + (aq)

I 0.100 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.100 - x x x
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
72
 Using % Ionization to Find Concentration
Step
4 Plug in x and solve for each concentration.

The [H 3 O + ] we found in step 2 refers to x. So x = 0.0132.

BrCH 2 COOH(aq) + H 2 O(l) BrCH 2 COO - (aq) + H 3 O + (aq)
I 0.100 0 0
C
-0.0132 +0.0132 +0.0132
E 0.100 - 0.0132 0.0132 0.0132



[BrCH 2 COOH] = 0.100 - 0.0132 = 0.0868 M

[BrCH 2 COO - ] = 0.0132 M

[H 3 O + ] = 0.0132 M

Note
We ended up with

the correct amount
[BrCH 2 COOH] = 0.0868 M of sig figs, there's
no need to round
[BrCH 2 COO - ] = 0.0132 M
[H 3 O + ] = 0.0132 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

73
 Relationship between pK a and pK b
pK a is another way to show the strength of an acid.
pK a Ka pH the stronger the acid.
pK a Ka pH the weaker the acid.

pK b is another way to show the strength of a base.

pK b Kb pH the stronger the base.
pK b Kb pH the weaker the base.

Common multiple choice question

Given the following acids and their associated pK a 's, which is the
strongest acid?
HOOCCl 3 (pK a = 0.7)
H 2 S (pK a = 7.1)
H 3 PO 4 (pK a = 2.1)
HCOOH (pK a = 4.7)
H 2 CO 3 (pK a = 6.4)

a, because pK a the stronger the acid and since 0.7 is the lowest, it is the strongest acid.

Recall K w = K a x K b , this can be applied to pK a and pK b .
pK a + pK b = 14.00
You may be asked to find the pK a from the pK b or vice versa.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

74
 Finding pK a and pK b
Finding pK a from pK b

If pK b = 11.01, what is the pK a ?

Plug in pK b into pK a + pK b = 14.00.

Step
1

pK a + 11.01 = 14.00
Subtract 11.01 from both sides
pK a + 11.01 = 14.00

-11.01 -11.01
pK a = 2.99

Finding pK b from pK a

If pK a = 3.82, what is the pK b ?

Plug
Step
1 in pK a into pK a + pK b = 14.00.
3.82 + pK b = 14.00
Subtract 3.82 from both sides
3.82 + pK b = 14.00
-3.82 -3.82

pK b = 10.18

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

75
 Finding pK a and pK b
Finding pK a from K a Finding K a from pK a

If K a = 6.3 x 10 - 5 , what is the pK a ? If pK a = 3.75, what is the K a ?

Plug in K a into pK a = -log K a .

Step
1 Plug in K a into K a = 10 - pK a .
Step
1

pK a = -log (6.3 x 10 - 5 ) K a = 10 - 3.75

pK a = 4.200659451 K a = 1.77827941 x 10 - 4
Round to the correct amount of sig figs. Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step Step
2 2

Since K a has 2 sig figs the pK a will Since pK a has 2 decimal places the K a
have 2 decimal places. will have 2 sig figs.
K a = 6.3 x 10 - 5 pK a = 4.200659451 pK a = 3.75 K a = 1.77827941 x 10 - 4
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places 2 decimal places = 2 sig figs

pK a = 4.20 K a = 1.8 x 10 - 4

Finding pK b from K b Finding K b from pK b

If K b = 2.2 x 10 - 11 , what is the pK b ? If pK b = 10.14, what is the K b ?

Plug in K b into pK b = -log K b .

Step
1
Plug in K b into K b = 10 - pK b .
Step
1

pK b = -log (2.2 x 10 - 11 ) K b = 10 - 10.14

pK b = 10.65757732 K b = 7.2443596 x 10 - 11
Step
2 Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
2 Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Since K b has 2 sig figs the pK b will Since pK b has 2 decimal places the K b
have 2 decimal places. will have 2 sig figs.
K b = 2.2 x 10 - 11 pK b = 10.65757732 pK b = 10.14 K b = 7.2443596 x 10 - 11
2 sig figs = 2 decimal places 2 decimal places = 2 sig figs

pK b = 10.66 K b = 7.2 x 10 - 11

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

76
 Finding Mass from pH

What mass of HClO4 must be present in 0.500 L of
solution to obtain a solution with a pH of 2.50?

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: V solution = 0.500 L Find: mass of HClO4

pH = 2.50

Find [H 3 O + ] using [H 3 O + ] = 10 - pH .
Step
2

[H 3 O + ] = 10 - 2.50 Correct amount of sig figs is

[H 3 O + ] = 0.0031622777 M found looking at the given values

Given: V solution = 0.500 L
Round to 3 sig figs
[H 3 O + ] = 0.00316 M

Since HClO4 is a strong acid we know:

[HClO4 ] = [H 3 O + ]
Step
3 Find moles using found Molarity.
given
0.500 L of solution 0.00316 mol HClO4
= 0.00158 mol HClO4
1 L of solution
Convert moles to grams using the molar mass of HClO4 .
Step

0.00158 mol HClO4 100.46 g HClO4 Molar mass of HClO4

1 mol HClO4 Use masses found on
periodic table
= 0.1587268 g HClO4 H = 1.01
+
Round up to 3 sig figs Cl = 35.45
O = 4 (16.00)
0.159 g HClO4 100.46 g/mol
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
77
 pH and Ideal Gas Law Question
What is the pH of a solution in which 224 mL of HCl(g),
measured at 27.2°C and 1.02 atm is dissolved in 1.50 L of aqueous solution?

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: V HCl = 224 mL Find: pH

T = 27.2°C
P = 1.02 atm

V solution = 1.50 mL
Convert units to match gas constant (R).
Step

L • atm
2

Recall the ideal gas law is PV = nRT where R = 0.0821

mol • K
Our given units must match the gas constant's (R) units before plugging in
values into our formula.

Convert mL to L.

Gas Law Units

224 mL 10 - 3 L
V HCl = = 0.224 L
1 mL P = atm
V = L
OR n = mol
L • atm
224 mL 1L R = 0.0821
V HCl = = 0.224 L mol • K
1000 mL T = K

Convert °C to K.

T = 27.2°C + 273 = 300.2 K

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

78
 pH and Ideal Gas Law Question
PV
Find n HCl using n = .
Step
3
RT
Updated Given: V HCl = 0.224 L To make this easier, rearrange the
T = 300.2 K formula so that n is solved for.
PV = nRT
P = 1.02 atm
Divide by RT to both sides
V solution = 1.50 L Won't use yet PV = nRT
RT RT
PV
(1.02 atm)(0.224 L) = n
n = L • atm
RT
(0.0821 mol • K )(300.2 K) Flip this around
PV
n =
0.22848 RT
n =
24.64642
n = 0.0092703119 mol
mol
Find Molarity of HCl using M = .
Step
4
L
n = 0.0092703119 mol

Round to 3 sig figs
n = 0.00927 mol
Molarity Formula:
We now have n HCl and we're given V solution = 1.50 L mol of solute

M =
0.00927 mol HCl L of solution
M =
1.50 L of solution This is why we use
V solution
[HCl] = 0.00618 M

Since HCl is a strong acid we know:

[H 3 O + ] = [HCl]
[H 3 O + ] = 0.00618 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

79
 pH and Ideal Gas Law Question
Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].
Step
5

pH = -log (0.00618)
pH = 2.209011525

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

Step
6

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.


[H 3 O + ] = 0.00618 M
3 sig figs = 3 decimal places

pH = 2.209011525

Round to 3 decimal places

pH = 2.209

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

80
 Finding Volume using Density
What volume (in mL) of a concentrated HCl, which is 36.0% HCl
by mass and has a density of 1.179g/mL, should be used to make 5.10 L
of an HCl solution with a pH of 1.50. Round your answer to 4 sig figs.

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 36.0% HCl Find: volume of HCl

d = 1.179 g/mL
V solution = 5.10 L
pH = 1.50
grams of solute
Recall percent by mass = x 100 so 36.0% HCl can be
100 grams of solution
36.0 g HCl
written as and the density of a solution can be
100 g solution
1.179 g solution
written as d =
1 mL solution

Find [H 3 O + ] using [H 3 O + ] = 10 - pH
Step
2

[H O + ] = 10 - 1.50 Correct amount of sig figs is

3
[H 3 O + ] = 0.0316227766 found looking at the given values
Given: 36.0% HCl
Round to 3 sig figs V solution = 5.10 L
[H 3 O + ] = 0.0316 M

We now know the concentration of HCl solution to be prepared.

[HCl] = 0.0316 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

81
 Finding Volume using Density
Find the moles of HCl using the found Molarity.
Step
3
given
5.10 L solution 0.0316 mol HCl
= 0.16116 mol HCl
1 L solution

Step
4 Convert moles of HCl to grams.

0.16116 mol HCl 36.46 g HCl

Molar mass of HCl
1 mol HCl
Use masses found on
periodic table
= 5.8758936 g
Round up to 3 sig figs H = 1.01
+
Cl = 35.45
= 5.88 g
36.46 g/mol
Step
5 Convert g HCl to mL of solution.

g HCl g solution mL solution

1
Plan:
1 % by mass density
5.88 g HCl 100 g solution 1 mL solution
36.0 g HCl 1.179 g solution

588
=
42.444

= 13.8535482 mL
Round to 4 sig figs
13.85 mL

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

82
 Properties of Anions and Salts
An anion (A - ) is the conjugate base of an acid (HA).
example: HA(aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + A - (aq)
acid conjugate base
An anion can be basic, neutral or amphoteric (acts an acid and base).
Basic: when an anion is the conjugate base of a weak acid, it is a weak base.
examples: F - , ClO - , CN - , C 2 H 3 O -2
Neutral: when an anion is the conjugate base of a stong acid.
examples: Cl - , Br - , I - , NO 3- , ClO4-
Amphoteric: when an anion comes from a polyprotic acid.
examples: HCO - , H PO-, HSO -
3 2 4 3

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

83
 Properties of Cations and Salts
A cation (BH + ) is the conjugate acid of a base (B).
example: BH + (aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + B(aq)
conjugate acid base
A cation can be acidic or neutral in the following 3 categories:

Acidic: when a cation is a conjugate acid of a weak base, it's a

weak acid.
examples: NH 4+, C 2 H 5 NH 3+, CH 3 NH 3+
Acidic: when a cation is small and has a higher charge, it's a weak acid.
examples: Typically transition metals like Al 3 + , Fe 3 + , Cr 3 + , Co 3 +

transition metals

Neutral: when a cation is a counterion of a strong base.

examples: Most group I or II metal cations.
Li + , Na + , K + , Rb + , Cs + , Mg 2 + , Ca 2 + , Sr 2 + , Ba 2 +
1A 8A
2A 3A 4A 5A 6A 7A
Counterion
The counterion to a
cation is an anion and
vice versa.
It's the ion with the
opposite charge.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

84
Classifying Salts as Acidic, Basic or Neutral
A salt has a cation (+charge) and an anion (-charge).
There are 4 types of salts you will see:

Neutral
Composed of a cation of a strong base and the anion of a strong acid.
Example: NaCl
NaOH HCl
is a strong base is a strong acid

Acidic
Composed of a cation of a weak base and the anion of a strong acid.
Example: NH4 Br
NH 3 HBr
is a weak base is a strong acid

Basic
Composed of a cation of a strong base and the anion of a weak acid.
Example: KF
KOH HF
is a strong base is a weak acid

Compare K a and K b values.

Composed of a cation of a weak base and the anion of a weak acid.
Using K w = K a x K b find K a of cation and K b of anion then determine
which value is larger.
Example: NH4 F
NH 3 HF
is a weak base is a weak acid

Steps shown on next page for this example.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

85
 Classifying Salts as Acidic, Basic or Neutral
Find K a of cation (NH 4+ ) using the K b of NH 3 .
Step
1

K w = K a (NH 4+ ) x K b (NH 3 )

Recall K w = 1.0 x 10 - 14
K b of NH 3 is found at
1.0 x 10 - 14 = K a (NH 4+ ) x 1.76 x 10 - 5 the end of most
textbooks in the
Divide 1.76 x 10 - 5 to both sides Appendix
1.0 x 10 - 14 = K a (NH 4+ ) x 1.76 x 10 - 5
K b (NH 3 ) = 1.76 x 10 -5
1.76 x 10 - 5 1.76 x 10 - 5

5.68181818 x 10 - 10 = K a (NH 4+ )
Round to 3 sig figs
K a (NH 4+ ) = 5.68 x 10 - 10

Find K b of anion (F - ) using the K a of HF.

Step
2

K w = K a (HF) x K b (F - )
Recall K w = 1.0 x 10 - 14
K a of HF is found at

1.0 x 10 - 14 = 6.8 x 10 - 4 x K b (F - )
the end of most
Divide 6.8 x 10 - 4 to both sides textbooks in the
Appendix
1.0 x 10 - 14 = 6.8 x 10 - 4 x K b (F - )
6.8 x 10 - 4 6.8 x 10 - 4 K a (HF) = 6.8 x 10 -4

1.47058824 x 10 - 11 = K b (F - )
Round up to 2 sig figs
K b (F - ) = 1.5 x 10 - 11

Compare K a (NH 4+ ) and K b (F - ) values.

Step
3

K a (NH 4+ ) > K b (F - )
Since K a is larger the salt (NH 4 F) is acidic.
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
86
 Ranking Salts
Rank the relative pH's for solutions of the following
salts, from the lowest pH to highest pH, given the following acidity
data: HCN(K a = 4.9 x 10 - 10 ) HF(Ka = 3.5 x 10 - 4 )
Salts: KCl NH4 Br KCN KF

Classify each salt as acidic, basic or neutral.

Step
1

KCl NH4 Br KCN KF

KOH HCl NH 3 HBr KOH HCN KOH HF
is a is a is a is a is a is a is a is a
strong strong weak strong strong weak strong weak
base acid base acid base acid base acid

Neutral Acidic Basic Basic

Since there are two salts that are basic we need to figure out which
one is more acidic.

Compare given K a values between basic salts.

Step
2

Recall K a pH the stronger acid

Given: HCN(K a = 4.9 x 10 - 10 ) HF(K a = 3.5 x 10 - 4 )
Larger Ka value tells us KF is
more acidic and has a lower pH

Rank salts from lowest to highest pH.

Step
3

lowest pH highest pH
(most acidic) (most basic)

NH 4 Br < KCl < KF < KCN

acidic neutral basic
salt salt salts

NH 4 Br < KCl < KF < KCN

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

87
Classifying Salts using Dissociation Equations
You may be asked to support your answer by writing the dissociation equations,
here's how:
Write the dissociation equation for the salt. The salt is the
Step
1
reactant and the salt's cation and anion are the products.

salt cation + + anion -

example: NH 4 Cl NH 4+ + Cl -
Step
2
Write 2 hydrolysis reactions by adding H 2 O to the cation and anion.

cation + + H 2 O base + H 3 O +
Hydrolysis
example: NH 4+ + H 2 O NH 3 + H 3 O + A chemical reaction
where water is added
anion - + H O 2 acid + OH - to break down a
compound.
example: Cl - + H 2 O HCl + OH - If a substance
hydrolyzes it breaks
down.

Compare the strength of the base and acid formed in the

Step
3

hydrolysis reactions.

acidic salt neutral salt basic salt

strong acid strong acid weak acid
weak base strong base strong base

example: acidic salt: strong acid weak base

HCl NH 3

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

88
Classifying Salts using Dissociation Equations

Determine whether each of the following salts will form a

solution that is acidic, basic or pH-neutral using each dissociation equation.
a. AlBr3
b. C 2 H 5 NH 3 NO3
c. K 2 CO3
d. RbI
e. NaClO

a. AlBr3
Step Dissociation equation: AlBr3 Al 3 + + 3 Br -
1

Step
2
Hydrolysis: Al 3 + + 3 H 2 O Al(OH) 3 + 3 H + Make sure all
equations are


Br - + H 2 O HBr + OH -
balanced
Compare: Al(OH) 3 HBr
Step

weak base strong acid

3

acidic

b. C 2 H 5 NH 3 NO 3
Step
1
Dissociation equation: C 2 H 5 NH 3 NO 3 C 2 H 5 NH 3+ + NO 3-
Step
2
Hydrolysis: C 2 H 5 NH 3+ + H 2 O C 2 H 5 NH 2 + H 3 O +

NO 3- + H 2 O HNO 3 + OH -

Compare: C 2 H 5 NH 2
Step
3
HNO 3
weak base strong acid

acidic

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

89
Classifying Salts using Dissociation Equations
c. K 2 CO 3
Dissociation equation: K 2 CO 3 2 K + + CO 32 -
Step
1

Hydrolysis: K + + H 2 O
Step
2 KOH + H +
CO 2 - + H O
3 2 HCO 3- + OH -
Compare: KOH
Step HCO 3-
strong base weak acid
3

basic
d. RbI
Dissociation equation: RbI Rb + + I -
Step
1

Step
2 Hydrolysis: Rb + + H 2 O RbOH + H +

I- + H2O HI + OH -

Compare: RbOH HI
Step
3

strong base strong acid

neutral

e. NaClO
Step
1 Dissociation equation: NaClO Na + + ClO -
Step
2 Hydrolysis: Na + + H 2 O NaOH + H +

ClO - + H 2 O HClO + OH -

Compare: NaOH HClO

Step
3

strong base weak acid

basic

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

90
 Determining Acid Strength from Molecular Structure

The strength of an acid depends on how easy it is to remove a

H + from the acid (HA).
The easier it is to remove H + , the stronger the acid.

Each type of acid has its own factors for determining acid strength:
Binary Acids (no oxygen)
Bond Polarity and Bond Strength.

electronegativity
If the bond is polar then the structure is acidic
acid strength
nonpolar polar
H C H F
not acidic acidic
6A 7A
The more electronegative the atom attached
to H is, the higher the acid strength.
most electronegative
H2O HF H 2 O HF
acid strength
bond strength
acid strength

H2S HCl

The larger the atom attached to H is, the

H 2 Se HBr higher the acid strength.
smaller molar mass larger molar mass

H F H Cl
19.0 35.45

H 2 Te HI
acid strength

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

91
Determining Acid Strength from Molecular Structure

Oxyacids (has oxygen, H-O-Y)

Electronegativity of Y

electronegativity acid strength

most electronegative
H-O-I H-O-Cl
acid strength

Reason: the more electronegative Y is, the more polar the H-O bond is.
This makes it easier to remove a H + .

Number of Oxygens Bonded to Y

more oxygens acid strength

HClO 2 HClO 4
O

H O Cl O H O Cl O
1 oxygen
O
3 oxygens
acid strength

Reason: the more oxygens bonded to Y, the more electronegative Y

becomes. Which makes the H-O-Y bond more polar.

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

92
 Determining Acid Strength from Molecular Structure Example

Rank in order of decreasing acid strength (highest to lowest)

a. CH 3 CH 2 OH, CH 3 CH 2 NH 2 , CH 3 CH 2 SH, CH 3 CH 2 CH 3
b. HClO 3 , HBrO 2 , HClO 2
c. CH 3 CH 2 CH 2 COOH, CH 3 CH 2 CHCOOH, ClCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 COOH, CH 3 CHCH 2 COOH
Cl Cl
a. CH 3 CH 2 OH, CH 3 CH 2 NH 2 , CH 3 CH 2 SH, CH 3 CH 2 CH 3

electronegativity most
electronegative
acid strength
4A 5A 6A 7A
Factor: CH 3 CH 2 CH 3 CH 3 CH 2 NH 2 CH 3 CH 2 OH CH 3 CH 2 SH
6 7 8 9
C N O F
14 15 16 17
CH
Si P S Cl 3 CH 2 OH > CH 3 CH 2 NH 2 > CH 3 CH 2 SH > CH 3 CH 2 CH 3
32 33 34 35
Ge As Se Br

b. HClO 3 , HBrO 2 , HClO 2

Factor 1: electronegativity acid strength
HBrO 2 is the weakest because Cl is more electronegative than Br.
Factor 2: more oxygens acid strength
HClO 3 > HClO 2 because it has more oxygens.

HClO 3 > HClO 2 > HBrO 2
c. CH 3 CH 2 CH 2 COOH, CH 3 CH 2 CHCOOH, ClCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 COOH, CH 3 CHCH 2 COOH

Cl Cl
Factor: The closer the electronegative atom is to another
electronegative atom the stronger the acid.
CH 3 CH 2 CHCOOH > CH 3 CHCH 2 COOH > ClCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 COOH > CH 3 CH 2 CH 2 COOH

Cl Cl

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

93
Finding pH of a Solution with an Anion

Find the pH of a 0.250 M solution of NaC 2 H 3 O 2

(K a of HC 2 H 3 O 2 is 1.80 x 10 - 5 ).

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.250 M NaC 2 H 3 O 2 Find: pH

K a (HC 2 H 3 O 2 ) = 1.80 x 10 - 5
Write the dissociation equation.
Step
2

Since the Na + in given salt NaC 2 H 3 O 2 dissociates and has no acidic or

basic properties we can exclude it, C 2 H 3 O -2, from the below equation.

C 2 H 3 O -2(aq) + H 2 O(l) HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) + OH - (aq)

Build an ICE Table.

Step
3

C H O - (aq) + H O(l) HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) + OH - (aq)

2 3 2 2
I 0.250 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.250 - x x x

Write K b expression.
Step
4
equilibruium expression
[HC 2 H 3 O 2 ][OH - ]
K =
b [C 2 H 3 O -2]

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

94
Finding pH of a Solution with an Anion
Find K b value using given K a value and K w = K a x K b .
Step
5

K w = K a (HC 2 H 3 O 2 ) x K b (C 2 H 3 O -2)

Recall K w = 1.0 x 10 - 14
1.0 x 10 - 14 = 1.80 x 10 - 5 x K b (C 2 H 3 O -2)
Divide 1.80 x 10 - 5 to both sides
1.0 x 10 - 14 = 1.80 x 10 - 5 x K b (C 2 H 3 O -2)
1.80 x 10 - 5 1.80 x 10 - 5
5.55555556 x 10 - 10 = K b (C 2 H 3 O -2)
Round to 3 sig figs
K (C H O - ) = 5.56 x 10 - 10
b 2 3 2
Step
6 Solve for x.

Plug in row E and K b value into K b expression.

C 2 H 3 O -2(aq) + H 2 O(l) HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) + OH - (aq)

I 0.250 0 0
C -x +x +x [HC 2 H 3 O 2 ][OH - ]
Kb =
E 0.250 - x x x [C 2 H 3 O -2]
x • x
K b (C 2 H 3 O -2) = 5.56 x 10 - 10
5.56 x 10 - 10 =
0.250 - x

Multiply the numerator.

x • x
5.56 x 10 - 10 =
0.250 - x

x2
5.56 x 10 - 10 =
0.250 - x
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
95
 Finding pH of a Solution with an Anion
Check if the x is small assumption is valid. If valid, apply the
"x is small assumption" by removing the x that is being subtracted.
x2 The 5% rule is valid and x is small
5.56 x 10 - 10 = Clue When K ≤ 10
b
-4
0.250 - x
x2
5.56 x 10 - 10 =
0.250
Multiply the denominator to both sides.

x2
(0.250) x 5.56 x 10 - 10 = x (0.250)
0.250
1.39 x 10 - 10 = x 2
Take the square root of both sides.

1.39 x 10 - 10 = x 2
1.178982612 x 10 - 5 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

Correct amount of sig figs is
1.178982612 x 10 - 5 = x
found looking at the given values
Round up to 3 sig figs Given: 0.250 M NaC 2 H 3 O 2
x = 1.18 x 10 - 5 K a (HC 2 H 3 O 2 ) = 1.80 x 10 - 5
Recall x refers to the [OH - ].
C 2 H 3 O -2(aq) + H 2 O(l) HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) + OH - (aq)
I 0.250 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.250 - x x x

So x = 1.18 x 10 - 5 refers to [OH - ] = 1.18 x 10 - 5 M

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
96
Finding pH of a Solution with an Anion
Find [H 3 O + ] using [H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14 .
Step
7

Plug in [OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14 .

[H 3 O + ][OH - ] = 1.0 x 10 - 14
[H 3 O + ](1.18 x 10 - 5 ) = 1.0 x 10 - 14

Divide 1.18 x 10 - 5 to both sides.

[H 3 O + ](1.18 x 10 - 5 ) = 1.0 x 10 - 14
1.18 x 10 - 5 1.18 x 10 - 5
[H O + ] = 8.47457627 x 10 - 10 M
3 Correct amount of sig figs is

Round to correct amount of sig figs. found looking at the given values
Given: 0.250 M NaC 2 H 3 O 2
[H 3 O + ] = 8.47457627 x 10 - 10 M
K a (HC 2 H 3 O 2 ) = 1.80 x 10 - 5

Round to 3 sig figs
[H O + ] = 8.47 x 10 - 10 M
3
Find pH by using pH = -log [H 3 O + ].
Step
8

pH = -log [8.47 x 10 - 10 ]
pH = 9.07211659
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
9

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 8.47 x 10 - 10 M

3 sig figs = 3 decimal places
pH = 9.07211659

pH = 9.072

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

97
 Mixture of Two Strong Acids
Since both acids are strong, they completely dissociate so they are both
sources of [H 3 O + ]. This is why we add the moles of each strong acid
together for the below example. If you were only give the molarities of the
strong acids then you would add those values together then find the pH.


Determine the pH of a solution prepared by mixing 150 mL
of a 0.12 M solution of HCl with 250 mL of a 0.18 M solution of HNO 3 .

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 150 mL HCl Find: pH

0.12 M HCl
250 mL HNO 3
0.18 M HNO 3

Find the moles of each strong acid.

Step
2

moles of HCl:
150 mL HCl 1 L HCl 0.12 mol HCl
= 0.018 mol HCl
1000 mL HCl 1 L HCl
moles of HCl:
250 mL HNO 3 1 L HNO 3 0.18 mol HNO 3
= 0.045 mol HNO 3
1000 mL HNO 3 1 L HNO 3

Add the moles together.

Step
3

0.018 mol HCl + 0.045 mol HNO 3 = 0.063 mol H 3 O +

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

98
 Mixture of Two Strong Acids
Find the total volume of the solution in L.
Step
4

Total Volume = 150 mL + 250 mL = 400 mL

400 mL 1L
= 0.4 L
1000 mL
Find [H 3 O + ] by dividing the total moles by the total volume.
Step
5

0.063 mol H 3 O +
[H 3 O ] = +
0.4 L of solution
[H 3 O + ] = 0.1575 M
Plug in new [H 3 O + ] into pH = -log [H 3 O + ]
Step
6

pH = -log (0.1575)
pH = 0.8027194419
Step
7 Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

Given: [HCl] = 0.12 M

2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pH = 0.8027194419

Round to 2 decimal places

pH = 0.80

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

99
 Mixture of a Strong and Weak Acid
The strong acid completely dissociates so that's the first source of
[H 3 O + ]. The weak acid partially dissociates so we need to find the [H 3 O + ]
using an ICE Table and the K a . Then add both [H 3 O + ] values together and
find the pH.

Find the pH of a 0.115 M of HBr and 0.125 M of HCHO 2 solution
(K a of HCHO 2 = 1.8 x 10 - 4 ).

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 0.115 M HBr Find: pH

0.125 M HCHO 2
K a (HCHO 2 ) = 1.8 x 10 - 4
Step
2 Determine the [H 3 O + ] for the strong acid.

[HBr] = 0.115 M
[HBr] = [H O + ]
3
[H 3 O + ] = 0.115 M

Build an ICE Table.

Step

HCHO (aq) + H O(l)

2 2 H 3 O + (aq) + CHO -2(aq)
I 0.125 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 0.125 - x x x

Step
4 Write K a expression.
equilibruium expression
[H O + ][CHO - ]
3 2
K a =
[HCHO 2 ]

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

100
 Mixture of a Strong and Weak Acid
Solve for x.
Step
5

Plug in row E and K a value into K a expression.

HCHO 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + CHO -2(aq) [H 3 O + ][CHO -2]

K a =
I 0.125 0 0 [HCHO 2 ]

C -x +x +x
K a = 1.8 x 10 - 4
E 0.125 - x x x
x•x
1.8 x 10 - 4 =
0.125 - x
Multiply the numerator.
x•x
1.8 x 10 - 4 =
0.125 - x

x2
1.8 x 10 - 4 =
0.125 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid. If valid, apply the “x is small

assumption” by removing the x that is being subtracted.

x 2 The 5% rule is valid and x is small

1.8 x 10 - 4 = Clue When K a ≤ 10
-4
0.125 - x

x 2
1.8 x 10 - 4 =
0.125

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

101
 Mixture of a Strong and Weak Acid
Multiply the denominator to both sides.

x2
- 4
(0.125) x 1.8 x 10 = x (0.125)
0.125

2.25 x 10 - 5 = x 2

Take the square root of both sides.

2.25 x 10 - 5 = x2

0.0047434165 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

0.0047434165 = x

Round to 2 sig figs

Correct amount of sig figs is
x = 0.0047 found looking at the given values
Given: K a = 1.8 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

102
 Mixture of a Strong and Weak Acid
Recall x refers to the [H + ] or [H 3 O + ].

HCHO 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + (aq) + CHO -2(aq)

I 0.125 0 0

C -x +x +x
E 0.125 - x x x

So x = 0.0047 refers to [H 3 O + ] = 0.0047 M for our weak acid.

Add both [H 3 O + ] values together.
Step
6
weak acid strong acid
[H 3 O + ] total = 0.0047 M + 0.115 M = 0.1197 M

Find pH using pH = -log [H 3 O + ] total .

Step
7

pH = -log (0.1197)

pH = 0.9219058496
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
8

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

Given: [HBr] = 0.115 M

3 sig figs = 3 decimal places
pH = 0.9219058496

Round up to 3 decimal places

pH = 0.922

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

103
 Mixture of Two Weak Acids
Since both acids are weak, they partially dissociate, so we will need to
find out which acid is stronger. We can do this by comparing the K a
values. The acid with the larger K a is the strongest. The [H 3 O + ] of the
stronger acid is the only value you will use to find the pH of the mixture.

Find the pH of a mixture of 1.00 M HCN (K a = 6.2 x 10 - 10 ) and
5.00 M HNO 2 (K a = 4.0 x 10 - 4 ).

Identify the given and what you're finding.

Step
1

Given: 1.00 M HCN Find: pH

K a (HCN) = 6.2 x 10 - 10
5.00 M HNO 2
K a (HNO 2 ) = 4.0 x 10 - 4

Compare K a values and determine the stronger acid.

Step
2

HCN K a = 6.2 x 10 - 10

HNO 2 K a = 4.0 x 10 - 4 larger K a = stronger acid

Step
Build an ICE Table for stronger acid.

3

HNO (aq) + H O(l)

2 2 H O + + NO - 3 2
I 5.00 0 0
C -x +x +x
E 5.00 - x x x

Step
4
Write K a expression.
equilibruium expression
[H O + ][NO - ]
3 2
K a =
[HNO 2 ]

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

104
 Mixture of Two Weak Acids
Solve for x.
Step
5

Plug in row E and K a value into K a expression.

HNO 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + + NO -2 [H 3 O + ][NO -2]

K a =
I 5.00 0 0 [HNO 2 ]

C -x +x +x
K a = 4.0 x 10 - 4
E 5.00 - x x x
x•x
4.0 x 10 - 4 =
5.00 - x
Multiply the numerator.
x•x
4.0 x 10 - 4 =
5.00 - x

x2
-
4.0 x 10 =4
5.00 - x

Check if the x is small assumption is valid. If valid, apply the “x is small

assumption” by removing the x that is being subtracted.

x 2 The 5% rule is valid and x is small

4.0 x 10 - 4 = Clue When K a ≤ 10
-4
5.00 - x

x 2
4.0 x 10 - 4 =
5.00

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

105
 Mixture of Two Weak Acids
Multiply the denominator to both sides.

x 2
(5.00) x 4.0 x 10 - 4 = x (5.00)
5.00

0.002 = x 2

Take the square root of both sides.

0.002 = x2

0.0447213595 = x

Round to the correct amount of sig figs.

0.0447213595 = x

Round up to 2 sig figs

Correct amount of sig figs is
x = 0.045 found looking at the given values
Given: K a = 4.0 x 10 - 4

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

106
 Mixture of Two Weak Acids
Recall x refers to the [H + ] or [H 3 O + ].

HNO 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) H 3 O + + NO -2

I 5.00 0 0

C -x +x +x
E 5.00 - x x x

So x = 0.045 refers to [H 3 O + ] = 0.045 M

Find pH using pH = -log [H O + ].
Step
6 3
[H 3 O + ] = 0.045 M pH = -log [H 3 O + ]
pH = -log [0.045]

pH = 1.346787486
Round to the correct amount of sig figs.
Step
7

The amount of sig figs the concentration has equals the number of decimal places
the pH or pOH will have.

[H 3 O + ] = 0.045 M


2 sig figs = 2 decimal places
pH = 1.346787496

Round up to 2 decimal places

pH = 1.35

Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.

107
Distribution is prohibited by law. Copyright © Melissa Maribel.
108