AP Chemistry / Unit 8: Acids and Bases
8.7 pH and pKa
Notes
- $pK_a=-\log K_a$; smaller $pK_a$ = stronger acid.
- If $pH<pK_a$: mostly HA (protonated). If $pH>pK_a$: mostly $\mathrm{A^-}$.
Practice
An acid has $pK_a=4.8$ in a solution at pH 7. Its main form:
pH is above $pK_a$.
Which acid is strongest?
Smallest $pK_a$.
At pH = $pK_a$:
Half and half.
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