Question

For Kw, the product of [H3O+] and [OH-] is ___________.

Answer 1

Answer:

Kw = 1×10⁻¹⁴

Explanation:

The product between the [H₃O⁺] .  [OH⁻] talks about the

autoionization of water.

2H₂O  ⇄  H₃O⁺  .  OH⁻     Kw

This is an equilibrium of 2 molecules of water that produces 1 mol of hydronium and 1 mol of hydroxides.

In order to determine pH and pOH, parameters to indicate acidic or basic solutions we know:

- log [H₃O⁺] = pH

- log [OH⁻] = pOH

When [H₃O⁺] or [OH⁻] = 1×10⁻⁷ , pH or pOH = 7 (Neutral solutions)

So if we see the equation above, we have an equilibrium.

In order to determine Kw, we need [H₃O⁺] .  [OH⁻]

As [H₃O⁺] and [OH⁻] = 1×10⁻⁷ , Kw = 1×10⁻¹⁴