Question

A generic weak acid with formula HA has a Ka = 2.76 x 10-8. Calculate the Kb for the conjugate base of the acid.

Answer 1

Answer:

3.62x10⁻⁷ = Kb

Explanation:

The acid equilibrium of a weak acid, HX, is:

HX + H₂O ⇄ X⁻ + H₃O⁺

Where Ka = [X⁻] [H₃O⁺] / [HX]

And basic equilibrium of the conjugate base, is:

X⁻ + H₂O ⇄ OH⁻ + HX

Where Kb = [OH⁻] [HX] / [X⁻]

To convert Ka to Kb we must use water equilibrium:

2H₂O ⇄ H₃O⁺ + OH⁻

Where Kw = 1x10⁻¹⁴ = [OH⁻] [H₃O⁺]

Thus, we can obtain:

Kw = Ka*Kb

Solving for Kb:

Kw / Ka = Kb

1x10⁻¹⁴ /  2.76x10⁻⁸ =

3.62x10⁻⁷ = Kb