Question

Write the Ka expression for an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid: (Note that either the numerator or denominator may contain more than one chemical species. Enter the complete numerator in the top box and the complete denominator in the bottom box. Remember to write the hydronium ion out as , and not as )

Answer 1

Answer: The Ka expression for an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid is $K_{a} = \frac{[H_{3}O^{+}][OCl^{-}]}{[HClO]}$.

Explanation:

The chemical formula of hypochlorous acid is HClO. So, when it is added to water (solvent) then its dissociation is as follows.

$HClO + H_{2}O \rightarrow H_{3}O^{+} + Cl^{-}$

When we write the equilibrium constant for this reaction then it is called acid acid dissociated constant.

Hence, the expression for acid dissociation constant of this reaction is as follows.

$K_{a} = \frac{[H_{3}O^{+}][OCl^{-}]}{[HClO]}$

Thus, we can conclude that the Ka expression for an aqueous solution of hypochlorous acid is $K_{a} = \frac{[H_{3}O^{+}][OCl^{-}]}{[HClO]}$.